Name: Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine); 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 oz lump crab meat (fresh or canned); 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 4 oz cream cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

This Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent seafood pasta dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to my home kitchen. With tender shrimp, sweet lump crab, and a rich Alfredo sauce baked with pasta and melty cheese, this is comfort food that feels special without being complicated. Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a seafood lover’s dream. The combination of shrimp and crab creates a sweet and savory base that’s perfectly matched by the creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s hearty enough for a weekend dinner, but easy enough to throw together on a busy night. I can also prep it ahead of time and just bake it when ready—making it perfect for entertaining or a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
Butter
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Cream cheese
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
I cook the pasta until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, I melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
I add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3 minutes, then stir in the crab and remove from heat.
In another saucepan, I heat cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan until smooth. I season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
I combine the pasta, seafood mixture, and sauce, then pour everything into the baking dish.
I top with mozzarella and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
I let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 generous servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, so I have it on the table in roughly 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap the crab for lobster or scallops when I want to switch things up.
For a spicier version, I add a dash of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
I like using spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to bring in some extra color and nutrients.
To make it lighter, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, I cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through—about 15–20 minutes. I can also microwave individual portions, but I add a splash of cream to keep the sauce from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, I thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. It works just as well and is convenient for quick meals.

What kind of crab meat is best?

I prefer lump crab meat for its sweet flavor and firm texture, but claw meat or imitation crab can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble everything, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, I bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5–10 minutes.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, I freeze the unbaked dish wrapped in foil for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

What pasta shape works best?

I like using short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini because they hold the sauce well, but fettuccine is also a delicious choice.

Conclusion

Shrimp & Crab Alfredo Bake is a decadent, satisfying dish that turns simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether I’m making it for a cozy dinner or a dinner party, it always impresses and leaves everyone wanting seconds. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for seafood lovers like me.