Shrimp Alfredo Bake With Broccoli

Name: Shrimp Alfredo Bake With Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine); 2 cups Alfredo sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making this Shrimp Alfredo Bake with Broccoli on busy weeknights when I need a delicious meal in no time. This dish combines tender shrimp and crisp broccoli in a creamy Alfredo sauce topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust. It's a comforting and flavorful option that both my family and I enjoy, making it a perfect candidate for our regular dinner rotation. The best part? It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy win for my weekly meal prep.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-27T12:13:35.339Z

When I first made this Shrimp Alfredo Bake, I was amazed by how simple yet elegant it turned out. The combination of shrimp and broccoli is not only visually appealing, but it also adds a balance of protein and greens to the dish. I learned that adding a touch of garlic to the Alfredo sauce enhances the flavor without overpowering the shrimp's natural sweetness.

As I've refined this recipe, I've discovered that using fresh broccoli instead of frozen gives the bake a better texture, adding that satisfying crispness. It's a dish that truly satisfies, and it also reheats beautifully, making leftovers a joy!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly coats the shrimp and broccoli
Quick and easy preparation makes it a weeknight favorite
The baked cheese topping adds a delicious golden crunch

      

Essential Cooking Techniques

When cooking the broccoli, the blanching technique is crucial. Boiling for just two minutes preserves the vibrant green color and crispness. If you over-blanch, the broccoli can become mushy, losing its fresh texture. After blanching, plunging the broccoli into an ice bath can help stop the cooking process and maintain that bright hue, adding to the visual appeal of your dish.

Sautéing the shrimp requires attention to avoid overcooking. Cooking them just until they turn pink ensures they're juicy and tender, rather than rubbery. Using medium heat is ideal; too high a temperature can lead to uneven cooking, while too low can slow the process more than desired.

Ingredient Insights

This recipe shines with the combination of Alfredo sauce and shrimp. The sauce's creamy consistency not only complements the shrimp's natural sweetness but also binds the dish together, making each bite rich and satisfying. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using a cauliflower Alfredo sauce, which maintains creaminess while reducing calories.

The cheeses play a key role in the flavor and texture of the bake. Mozzarella provides a gooey, stretchy quality, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. If you're in a pinch or have dietary restrictions, vegan cheeses can also work well in this dish, just keep in mind that the melting process may vary.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Shrimp Alfredo Bake is ideal for meal prep. It can store in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheats beautifully. Just cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. If you prepare it in advance, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook during reheating.

For those looking to serve a crowd, this dish scales easily. Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Consider adding more vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to incorporate additional flavors and nutrients—just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Alfredo Bake

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
2 cups Alfredo sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Broccoli

In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds before adding shrimp. Cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

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

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Alfredo Bake!

Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Shrimp Alfredo Bake by incorporating different proteins or vegetables. Chicken or scallops can be swapped for shrimp if you prefer. Vegetables like asparagus, peas, or even cherry tomatoes can add both color and nutrition, enhancing the overall dish without compromising the creamy texture.

For a spice kick, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce before mixing everything. This adds a delightful warmth and balance against the richness of the cheese and sauce. Alternatively, using smoked paprika can introduce a distinct smoky flavor that beautifully complements the creaminess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dish comes out too dry after baking, consider adding a splash of broth or extra Alfredo sauce before reheating. This can help reintroduce moisture and prevent the dish from becoming dense. Always check the consistency before serving; it should be creamy and easily scoopable.

In cases where the cheese doesn't brown as expected, you can switch to broiling for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan can also enhance the crust, giving a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fettuccine is recommended, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese to cut down on calories.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking.