Shrimp and Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a dish that combines the comforting warmth of baked pasta with the luxurious flavors of seafood, look no further than this Shrimp and Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake. It’s a delightful blend of tender penne pasta, succulent shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce that bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe offers a rich, flavorful experience that’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Plus, it brings a restaurant-quality meal into the comfort of your own kitchen, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Shrimp and Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake is more than just a seafood pasta dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances indulgence with simplicity. The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops each piece of penne, while the shrimp and crab add a fresh, oceanic touch that elevates the dish beyond your typical pasta bake. The melted mozzarella topping provides that irresistible golden crust, making every bite a perfect harmony of texture and flavor.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility and ease. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. Also, with pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese playing starring roles alongside fresh seafood, it’s a recipe that’s both accessible and impressive. If you love dishes like Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake, you’ll find this seafood-packed version equally satisfying and delicious.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 8 ounces penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape for holding onto creamy sauces and seafood bits, penne ensures each forkful is loaded with flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing shrimp and garlic, it adds a subtle fruitiness and helps develop flavor.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides a tender, slightly sweet protein that pairs beautifully with crab and creamy sauce.
• 1 cup crab meat: Adds a delicate sweetness and luxurious texture that makes this pasta bake extra special.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a savory punch.
• 2 cups heavy cream: The base of the Alfredo sauce, creating a rich, velvety texture.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and umami, essential for classic Alfredo flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully on top, creating a bubbly, golden crust.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color to finish the dish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta until al dente.
• Large skillet: To sauté shrimp and garlic, and make the Alfredo sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well): For assembling and baking the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise seasoning and creamy sauce consistency.
• Grater: For fresh Parmesan cheese, if you prefer freshly grated over pre-shredded.

Cooking Shrimp and Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water—it might come in handy to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté Shrimp and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. This step infuses the oil and the dish with that irresistible garlicky aroma.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

Pour 2 cups of heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Seafood, and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and 1 cup of crab meat, being careful to keep the crab meat intact as much as possible. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the creamy pasta and seafood mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown spots.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley over the top. This adds a fresh, vibrant finish that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Swap penne pasta with rigatoni or fusilli for a different texture that still holds sauce well.
• Use cooked lobster meat instead of crab for a more decadent seafood bake.
• Replace heavy cream with a mix of evaporated milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan cheese.
• Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra veggies and flavor.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
• Undercooking pasta: Be sure to cook the penne just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Skipping seasoning: Salt and pepper are crucial to bring out the flavors in the sauce and seafood.
• Using pre-shredded cheese with additives: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and have a superior flavor.
• Not stirring the sauce enough: To avoid lumps, continuously stir the cream and cheese mixture until smooth.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving directly as it can cause the sauce to separate. For longer storage, freeze the baked pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Shrimp and Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce, assemble it in the baking dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to use frozen shrimp and crab meat?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce.

What can I serve with this Shrimp and Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a light contrast, consider a fresh citrusy salad or steamed asparagus.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer to reduce and thicken. To thin the sauce, add a small amount of reserved pasta water or extra cream, stirring gently until you reach the desired consistency.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Bake – Another crowd-pleasing seafood pasta with a rich garlic sauce.
• Crab Crescent Bites – Perfect appetizers that highlight the sweet flavor of crab meat.
• Baked Ziti Recipe – A classic baked pasta dish that’s cheesy, comforting, and easy to make.

The Takeaway

This Shrimp and Crab Alfredo Pasta Bake brings together the best of creamy, cheesy pasta and fresh seafood in a way that’s both simple and impressive. The balance of textures—from tender pasta to succulent shrimp and crab, finished with a bubbly mozzarella crust—makes every bite a delight. With straightforward ingredients and approachable steps, it’s a recipe that deserves a regular spot on your meal plan. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this dish delivers that wow factor without complicated prep. Dive into this comforting, flavorful bake and enjoy a seafood pasta dinner that feels like a special occasion any day of the week.

Share on Pinterest