Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake: A Creamy, Cheesy Seafood Pasta Delight

If comfort food had a passport, this Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake would be stamped and certified. It’s creamy, cheesy, bubbling with flavor, and brimming with succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a special family dinner, entertaining guests, or just craving something cozy after a long day—this dish checks every box. Best of all, it’s made with simple ingredients and ready in under an hour.

This baked pasta is ideal for seafood lovers, busy home cooks who want something satisfying without being too complex, and anyone looking to upgrade their weeknight dinner game. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like it came from a high-end Italian bistro—without the price tag or fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake

• Creamy and Cheesy: Made with mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan, this bake is loaded with melty, savory goodness.

• Packed with Protein: A full pound of shrimp makes this dish satisfying and hearty.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for dinner parties, potlucks, or family dinners.

• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Elevates classic Alfredo with garlic, parsley, and the bright pop of fresh tomatoes.

• One-Pan Friendly: Cook everything in one oven-safe skillet and skip the extra cleanup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta and Seafood

• 12 oz. penne pasta

• 1 lb. raw medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce and Flavor Base

• 3 Tbsp. butter, divided

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 Tbsp. freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

• 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup whole milk (or 2% for a lighter version)

• ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided

• ¼ cup plus 2 Tbsp. freshly grated Parmesan, divided

Additional

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (about 2 large)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of heavily salted boiling water, cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic, shrimp, and parsley, seasoning with kosher salt. Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside, keeping the flavorful juices in the skillet.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer. Stir in ¾ cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet along with the chopped tomatoes and cooked penne. Stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle the top with the remaining ¼ cup of mozzarella and 2 tablespoons of Parmesan. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from oven and garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, savory flavors.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)

• Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel recommended)

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Grater for fresh Parmesan

• Chef’s knife and cutting board

• Oven mitts

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Shrimp Size: Medium or large shrimp work well here. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

• Alfredo Thickness: If your sauce gets too thick, thin it with extra milk or broth until desired consistency is reached.

• Mozzarella Tip: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

• Tomato Tip: Use ripe, firm tomatoes to prevent excess water in the bake. Cherry or grape tomatoes sliced in half also work.

Swaps & Variations

• Protein Options: Swap shrimp for diced chicken, scallops, or even cooked salmon for a different flavor profile.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

• Vegetarian: Omit shrimp and double the tomatoes, adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for heartiness.

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

• Extra Richness: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream for a creamier sauce.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

This dish stores beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.

To Store:

• Let cool completely.

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:

• Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

• For larger amounts, reheat in an oven-safe dish at 300°F until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing:

Not recommended for freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate. However, it can be done if needed. Just expect a slightly different texture upon thawing.

Perfect Pairings

Drinks:

• Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

• Sparkling water with lemon

• Light beer such as a pilsner or blonde ale

Sides:

• Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

• Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a veggie boost

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the skillet, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cook time if coming straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or seafood stock are excellent substitutes. Water with a pinch of salt can also work in a pinch.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, though the results will vary. Use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk (like oat milk), and vegan cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.

Do I need an oven-safe skillet?

It’s highly recommended for easy transfer from stovetop to oven. If you don’t have one, transfer everything to a baking dish before the final bake.

Final Thoughts

This Garlicky Shrimp Alfredo Bake is more than just a meal—it’s a full-on comfort experience in a skillet. Creamy, rich, and layered with garlic-kissed shrimp and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your home.

If you try this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more crowd-pleasing recipes like this one. Let’s keep the delicious inspiration coming—one baked pasta dish at a time!