Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and protein-packed meal, look no further than the Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake. This dish combines tender shrimp, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a luscious Alfredo sauce, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, the creamy Alfredo sauce envelops each piece of pasta and shrimp, creating a rich and indulgent flavor profile that feels like a warm hug. The penne pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, and the melted mozzarella cheese on top adds a delightful, gooey finish. Plus, the shrimp adds a lean protein that cooks quickly, making this dish perfect for busy evenings. It’s also incredibly versatile—easy to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies. And best of all? It’s an effortless one-dish meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavors right in your own kitchen.

Your Shopping Guide

• 8 ounces penne pasta: Choose a good-quality dried penne for the best texture.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen are both fine—just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely if frozen.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the rich and silky Alfredo sauce base.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and melting quality.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that irresistible cheesy topping.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to elevate the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, to enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a pop of color.

Essential Tools for Success

• Large pot: To boil the penne pasta until al dente.
• Large skillet: To sauté shrimp and garlic.
• Mixing bowl: For combining pasta with the creamy sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 inches): To bake your Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake until bubbly.
• Cheese grater: Freshly grating Parmesan and mozzarella makes a big flavor difference.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients evenly.

Cooking Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 9 to 11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and sauté for 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream to the garlic-infused olive oil. Stir constantly and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes. Then, gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese while stirring to melt it evenly. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and stir to combine. Then, add the cooked penne pasta and toss gently until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the creamy shrimp and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delightful dish.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Pair it with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light contrast.
• Serve alongside steamed or roasted asparagus in spring for a fresh, seasonal touch.
• Add a side of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of sauce.
• Top with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers in summer for a burst of color and flavor.
• Complement with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions in fall for earthier notes.

Cook’s Commentary

This Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake is a fantastic way to enjoy seafood without fuss. The shrimp cooks quickly, so timing is key to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery. I love how the Italian seasoning adds a subtle herbal note that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. If you want to switch things up, try swapping the mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese for different melty textures.

For a bit of extra flavor, you can prepare a Garlic Butter Shrimp Alfredo Bake variation by incorporating butter along with olive oil when sautéing the shrimp. It brings a luscious depth that’s hard to resist.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

• This dish is perfect for meal prep—store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or milk helps revive the creamy texture.
• You can assemble the bake ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• For freezing, bake the dish first, cool completely, then freeze in portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use vegan cheese in place of Parmesan and mozzarella. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add vegetables to the Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake?

Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, peas, or bell peppers work wonderfully. Add them during the pasta cooking or sauté them along with the shrimp for best results.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side. Since they continue cooking in the oven, slightly undercooking them in the skillet helps avoid rubberiness.

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Hungry for More?

If you love the comforting richness of this Shrimp Alfredo Penne Bake, don’t hesitate to explore more creamy pasta recipes and seafood bakes to expand your dinner repertoire. From simple skillet meals to elegant oven-baked dishes, there’s a whole world of flavors waiting to be discovered. Remember, the key to a perfect bake lies in balancing textures and seasoning to your taste. Happy cooking!

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