Crab and Shrimp Pasta Bake

Craving a comforting yet elegant dinner that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table? This Crab and Shrimp Pasta Bake is the perfect dish to satisfy that craving. Combining tender penne pasta, succulent crab meat, juicy shrimp, and a creamy blend of cheeses, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and cheesy, bubbly topping.

Top Reasons to Make Crab and Shrimp Pasta Bake

• Simple yet impressive: This dish looks and tastes gourmet without requiring professional skills.
• Seafood delight: Combines the sweetness of crab and shrimp, making it a seafood lover’s dream.
• Cheesy comfort: The ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan mix creates a creamy, melty texture that’s irresistible.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta like penne or rigatoni, and tweak the spices to suit your taste.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep in advance and bake when ready, perfect for busy days or entertaining guests.
• Perfect balance: The garlic, parsley, and a hint of lemon juice brighten and elevate the dish.

What Goes In

• 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni): The sturdy shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 1 cup cooked crab meat: Fresh or canned, packed with ocean flavor.
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a tender, juicy bite alongside the crab.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy base that keeps the bake moist and luscious.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to give that classic bubbly top.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic punch.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brings freshness and a pop of color.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: For a subtle heat that balances the richness.
• 1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and cuts through the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season and enhance every bite.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and bring everything together.

Must-Have Equipment

• Large pot: To boil the pasta until al dente.
• Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
• Large mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients evenly.
• Oven-safe baking dish (9×9-inch works great): For baking the pasta into a golden, bubbly masterpiece.
• Sauté pan: To gently cook the garlic and infuse the olive oil with flavor.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For mixing everything together without breaking the seafood.

Crab and Shrimp Pasta Bake: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne or rigatoni and cook until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a sauté pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with garlic flavor, which will elevate the entire dish.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses and Seasonings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed garlic with olive oil, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, cooked crab meat, cooked shrimp, chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently fold everything together until well combined and evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top if you love that golden crust. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy seafood goodness!

Substitutions by Diet

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties that hold up well in baking, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta.
• Dairy-free: Swap ricotta and mozzarella for plant-based cheese alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Low spice: Omit the red pepper flakes or reduce them to a pinch.
• Vegetarian option: Replace crab and shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for a similar texture and umami flavor.

Method to the Madness

This recipe thrives on layering flavors and textures. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy during baking. Sautéing garlic in olive oil releases its natural oils and aromas, which mingle beautifully with the creamy cheeses. The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a luxurious, melty base, while Parmesan adds a sharp, savory edge. Incorporating fresh parsley and lemon juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness. Finally, baking the entire dish allows the flavors to marry and the top to develop a delightful golden crust.

If you love seafood pasta bakes, you might also enjoy trying the luscious Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo Bake or the spicy, creamy Creamy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta for a delicious twist on classic flavors.

Storage Pro Tips

This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps preserve that crispy top layer.

If you want to freeze it, assemble the pasta bake in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen crab meat and shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture. This helps avoid a watery bake and keeps the flavors concentrated.

What type of pasta works best for Crab and Shrimp Pasta Bake?

Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their tubular shape holds the creamy sauce well. Other sturdy pasta like ziti or rigatoni also works great.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta bake a day before and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from cold.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely. Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. For a smoky heat, a pinch of smoked paprika works beautifully as well.

Desserts to Finish

• Zesty Lemon Bars – Bright and tangy, perfect to cleanse the palate after seafood.
• Silky Chocolate Mousse – Rich and decadent to satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Mixed Berry Crumble – Fruity and warm, a cozy way to end your meal.
• Coconut Macaroons – Light and chewy, with a tropical twist.

See You at the Table

There’s something truly special about gathering around a warm, cheesy pasta bake infused with the flavors of fresh seafood. This Crab and Shrimp Pasta Bake is designed to bring comfort and elegance to your dining experience without the fuss. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s creamy, savory, and simply unforgettable!

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