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Cheesy Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo Bake

Elina James
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta Bake:
  • 12 oz (340g) penne or fettuccine pasta
  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
  • For the Alfredo Sauce:
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus 1 cup extra for topping)
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For Garnish:
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and set aside.
  • Step 2: Cook the Shrimp : In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce : In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and milk; stir well. Lower heat and add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese gradually, stirring until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Step 4: Add Spinach and Combine : Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted. Add the cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the sauce evenly coats the pasta and shrimp.
  • Step 5: Assemble the Bake : Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the shrimp-pasta mixture into a greased baking dish (9x13 inches). Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Step 6: Bake : Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.