This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! It combines tasty shrimp, pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce all baked to golden perfection.
It’s like a warm hug in a dish, and who can resist that? I love serving it with a side salad. It makes dinner feel special without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This corkscrew pasta works well to hold the sauce. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen shrimp is super convenient! Just thaw it before cooking. If you prefer, you could use chicken or tofu as a protein alternative.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought saves time, but homemade is easily made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan. For a lighter option, consider a cauliflower Alfredo sauce.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its melty goodness. If you’re lactose intolerant, try dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quick, but it’s all about timing. You want them to be tender with no rubbery texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic first, then let it become fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Next, toss in the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
Perfectly cooked shrimp can elevate your dish’s texture and flavor, making it truly special!
How to Make Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients List:
For the Pasta & Filling:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Cheese Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a lovely weeknight dinner!
Detailed Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it to ensure your pasta bake doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Now, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, toss in the shrimp, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat.
4. Mix It All Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Gently stir the mixture to ensure everything is well combined.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let your Shrimp Alfredo Pasta Bake rest for about 5 minutes. Then garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added flavor and color before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works well for this recipe, you can substitute it with other short pasta options like penne, fusilli, or even macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta. You can also opt for low-fat or homemade Alfredo sauce, and add in more vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to help moisten it as it heats up.
Can I Freeze the Pasta Bake?
Yes, this pasta bake freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F (190°C) until thoroughly heated.