Creamy Shrimp And Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake With Cheese Crust

The aroma of freshly baked pasta wafts through the kitchen, mingling with the rich scent of shrimp and crab, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. The Creamy Shrimp And Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake With Cheese Crust takes about an hour to prepare and bake, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. Its creamy texture and cheesy crust make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers and anyone looking to elevate their pasta game. Perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or even meal prep, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of shrimp and crab adds a delightful seafood flavor that elevates the pasta dish.
• A creamy Alfredo sauce coats the penne pasta, making every bite rich and satisfying.
• A crispy cheese crust on top provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy filling.
• It’s a one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup without sacrificing taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious pasta bake:

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces penne pasta

For the Seafood

• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound crab meat, lump or claw, drained

For the Sauce

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For the Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Crab meat can be substituted with imitation crab.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use fettuccine instead of penne.
• Any seafood can work in place of shrimp and crab.
• Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter option.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal.

Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Seafood

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink. Remove from heat and gently fold in the crab meat.

Combine the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Fold in the Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the cream mixture, and then fold in the shrimp and crab. Stir together until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they will cook further in the oven.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Letting the dish cool slightly before serving helps firm up the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a fresh contrast.
• Serve with garlic bread for an authentic Italian meal.
• Enjoy it with a glass of white wine for a special occasion.