Shrimp Alfredo Bake

Name: Shrimp Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Hearty Delights

When I think of comfort food, Shrimp Alfredo Bake is always at the top of my list. The rich, creamy Alfredo sauce melds perfectly with succulent shrimp and a crispy topping, creating a dish that's as indulgent as it is satisfying. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Every bite is a delightful combination of flavors, and I enjoy serving it with a fresh salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. It's definitely a family favorite that never fails to impress!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:56:49.458Z

One of my favorite memories in the kitchen is the first time I made Shrimp Alfredo Bake for my family. I wanted to create a meal that was both comforting and elegant, and this dish turned out to be a perfect blend of those qualities. The best part? The secret lies in using quality ingredients, especially fresh shrimp and homemade Alfredo sauce, which elevates the flavor immensely.

While experimenting with the recipe, I learned that baking the dish with a crunchy topping adds a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta underneath. It’s the little details that make this meal shine, and I always love hearing compliments from those who enjoy my cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that coats each bite perfectly
Juicy shrimp pair wonderfully with the savory flavors
A crispy, golden topping that adds texture and appeal

Perfecting the Alfredo Sauce

The key to a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce lies in the balance of ingredients and the cooking technique. As you melt the butter and sauté the garlic, be careful not to let the garlic brown; it should only become fragrant. After adding the heavy cream, keep the heat at medium to maintain a gentle simmer. This helps the cream reduce without curdling, ensuring a smooth sauce. Stir in the Parmesan gradually to prevent clumping, and feel free to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go.

Nutmeg plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor profile of the sauce. Just a pinch adds warmth and complexity that beautifully complements the creaminess. If nutmeg is unavailable, you can substitute with a dash of ground cinnamon for a similar warmth or skip it entirely if you're sensitive to strong spices. Remember that fresh cheese will melt more smoothly than pre-grated varieties, so for optimal texture, use a block of Parmesan that you grate yourself.

Shrimp Selection and Cooking Tips

Using high-quality shrimp is essential for this dish. Look for fresh or frozen shrimp that are firm and smell like the sea; avoid any that smell overly fishy. Peeled and deveined shrimp cooks quickly, making it a perfect match for this recipe. When added to the Alfredo sauce, they should be just cooked through—opaque and tender—but be careful not to overcook them. If you leave them in the oven too long, they can turn rubbery, so aim for about 2-3 minutes in the sauce before transferring them to the baking dish.

If you'd like to add layers of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp briefly in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of Cajun seasoning before cooking. This will enhance their natural sweetness and give a bit of a spicy twist that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy Alfredo.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Shrimp Alfredo Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating it until you're ready to bake. Just remember that the pasta will absorb some sauce as it sits, so you may want to add a splash of cream or broth before baking to maintain a saucy consistency. If you're working with cooked shrimp, I recommend adding them just before baking to keep their texture intact.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is best done gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, aiming for about 15-20 minutes. You might need to add a little cream or milk to restore some moisture, especially if the dish becomes too dry while stored.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Alfredo Bake

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Feel free to customize the ingredients to your taste, such as adding vegetables or adjusting the seasoning.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and Alfredo sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired and enjoy your delicious Shrimp Alfredo Bake!

This dish is best served hot and can be paired with a green salad or garlic bread.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the mixture before baking. Using fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further!

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp Alfredo Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing can help cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce, creating a well-rounded meal. Consider adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Garlic bread is another classic side that complements the creamy pasta. You can make it easily by spreading butter mixed with minced garlic and herbs, then broiling it until golden brown. The crunch of the bread against the creamy bake creates a delightful contrast that everyone will enjoy.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with additional ingredients in your Shrimp Alfredo Bake. For a veggie boost, add sautéed spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the pasta and sauce mixture, bringing an earthy flavor and beautiful color. These vegetables not only enhance the nutritional content but also add a new dimension of flavor to the dish.

If you're looking for a lower-carb option, substitute the fettuccine pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. While the texture will differ slightly, the robust Alfredo sauce will still shine through. Just make sure to sauté any zucchini noodles briefly to remove excess moisture before adding them to the bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before adding to the dish.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta and reduce the heavy cream by substituting with a lower fat option or using half-and-half.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Could I substitute the shrimp for chicken?

Yes, chicken works well in this recipe. Cook it thoroughly before combining it with the pasta and sauce.