Creamy Shrimp And Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake With Cheese Crust

When that creamy, cheesy aroma fills the kitchen, you know something special is about to be served. This dish, a delightful combination of shrimp, crab, and alfredo sauce smothered over pasta and topped with a cheesy crust, is not only comforting but also a family favorite. It takes just about an hour to prepare and bake, making it the perfect recipe for those cozy evenings when comfort food is a must.

This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers and is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. You can make it ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve, ensuring less stress when entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The blend of shrimp and crab creates a rich, ocean-fresh flavor.
• Creamy alfredo sauce combined with pasta makes for a satisfying main dish.
• A cheesy, crunchy topping adds a delicious contrast in texture.
• It’s an easily adaptable recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients for this creamy seafood delight.

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Seafood

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

For the Sauce

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Note: Crab meat can be substituted with imitation crab.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use rigatoni instead of penne.
• Half-and-half can replace heavy cream.
• Switch mozzarella for cheddar cheese.
• Omit shrimp for a crab-only recipe.

How to Make It

Creating this creamy shrimp and crab alfredo pasta bake is a straightforward process.

Boil

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Begin by preheating the oven to ensure even cooking.

2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   Drain and set aside to prepare for mixing.

Sauté

3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink.
   This quick cooking will keep the shrimp tender. Remove from heat and gently fold in the crab meat.

Mix

5. Combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
   Mix until well blended to create a rich sauce.

6. Fold in the cooked pasta, followed by the shrimp and crab.
   Stir the mixture until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Assemble

7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
   Ensure an even spread for uniform cooking.

8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
   This will create a delicious crust while baking.

Bake

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
   Look for melted, bubbly cheese and a golden brown top as indicators of readiness.

10. Cool the dish for 5 minutes before serving.
    Letting it rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, best eaten fresh for texture.
Reheat: Use the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Cook pasta just until al dente for the best bite.
• Use fresh shrimp for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Increase garlic for a more robust flavor profile.
• Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving for easier portioning.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch.