A creamy, cheesy dish brings together tender shrimp and rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal that's perfect any night of the week. It’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm and delicious.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time40 min
Total Time55 min
Difficulty
Hard
Smart Cooking Tips
Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and firm when baked.
For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or mascarpone before baking.
Ingredients
0/11
Why This Dish Is Amazing
This dish combines creamy Alfredo sauce with tender shrimp and melted cheese, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The cheesy twist adds an extra layer of richness that everyone will enjoy.
Step 1
Lightly heat your oven to 350 degrees F. While it warms up, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until it’s just tender but still has a bit of a bite, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, warm some olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Toss in the shrimp, green pepper, and mushrooms, and sauté everything until the veggies are nice and soft, around 10 minutes.
Step 3
Once the pasta is done, drain it and transfer it to a large bowl. Stir in the Alfredo sauce, tomatoes, the Italian cheese blend, and a cup of Parmesan. Add the shrimp and veggie mix, then give it all a good stir. Next, mix in the pesto for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 4
Pour the whole mixture into a casserole dish. In a small bowl, combine the rest of the Parmesan with some breadcrumbs, then sprinkle that evenly over the top.
Step 5
Pop the casserole in the oven and bake until it’s hot and bubbly, about 25 to 30 minutes. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy!
141
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Best Ways To Serve
Serve this bake with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also pairs well, helping to soak up the delicious sauce. A light white wine can complement the flavors nicely.
How To Store For Later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain creaminess and prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Yes, just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even heating.
What can I substitute for penne rigate pasta?
Any short pasta like rigatoni, ziti, or rotini will work well.
Is it necessary to keep the shrimp tails on?
No, you can remove the tails if you prefer for easier eating.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Omit the shrimp and add extra mushrooms or your favorite vegetables instead.
What type of cheese is in the Italian cheese blend?
It usually includes mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
Yes, just use about 1 to 1½ cups of fresh diced tomatoes.
How do I store leftovers and reheat them?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
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