Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake is a decadent and easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Combining juicy shrimp, creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender pasta baked to perfection under a golden, cheesy crust, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting guests or feeding your family, this one-pan meal will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake is loaded with flavor, combining the richness of Alfredo sauce with the savory taste of garlic and shrimp. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. The bake is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring your oven up to 375°F (190°C). Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the shrimp in the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken. Stir in Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the Alfredo sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. For a golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, makes an excellent accompaniment to this creamy dish.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Replace the shrimp with grilled chicken, scallops, or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables instead.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Cheese Blend: Mix in other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or asiago for a unique cheesy twist.
Storage
Place leftovers sealed in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Bring your oven up to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake
Course: Dinner4
servings10
minutes25
minutesIngredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring it to a boil. Boil the pasta following the package directions until it reaches a firm, yet tender texture. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Take the shrimp out of the pan and set them to the side.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Stir in the Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed shrimp to the Alfredo sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese uniformly over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. To achieve a golden crust, broil for an extra 2-3 minutes.
FAQ
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bake, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If starting from cold, extend the baking time by an additional 5-10 minutes. - What kind of pasta works best?
Penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine work wonderfully, but any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well will do. - Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! For convenience, jarred Alfredo sauce can replace homemade. Just enhance it with fresh garlic and Parmesan for extra flavor. - Can I make this lighter?
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less cheese for a lighter version.
