Shrimp Spinach Alfredo Bake

Name: Shrimp Spinach Alfredo Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Shrimp Spinach Alfredo Bake for a comforting yet elegant dinner. This dish combines succulent shrimp with tender spinach and a creamy Alfredo sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s a fantastic way to impress dinner guests or simply treat myself to a delicious meal. The rich flavors and cheesy goodness truly elevate this dish, making it a favorite in my kitchen. Plus, it's quick to prepare, allowing me to enjoy more time with my loved ones while still serving something special.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:17:37.104Z

When I first made Shrimp Spinach Alfredo Bake, I wasn't sure how well the flavors would come together, but the results blew me away. The combination of the creamy Alfredo sauce with the fresh spinach and tender shrimp creates a harmony that's simply irresistible. I tried using different types of pasta, but settling on penne made it hearty without overshadowing the main ingredients.

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the shrimp with a hint of garlic before blending it into the dish. This simple step infuses incredible flavor, making every bite a delightful experience. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it will become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A creamy Alfredo sauce that envelops the shrimp and spinach harmoniously
Loaded with flavors that cater to both seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts
An easy yet impressive dish, perfect for weeknights or special occasions

Elevating the Alfredo Sauce

The creamy Alfredo sauce in this bake sets it apart and adds a luxurious touch. Using heavy cream is key because it maintains a rich texture that clings beautifully to the shrimp and pasta. I always recommend simmering the sauce gently to prevent it from separating. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for part of the heavy cream, but be mindful that it may slightly alter the richness of the sauce.

For additional depth of flavor, adding a pinch of nutmeg or freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the overall taste profile of the Alfredo. Some of my favorite variations include incorporating a splash of white wine when sautéing the shrimp. This not only infuses the dish with extra flavor but also adds a hint of brightness that balances the creaminess.

Shrimp Preparation Tips

When preparing the shrimp, choosing high-quality, fresh shrimp can make a noticeable difference in taste. I always recommend wild-caught over farmed shrimp whenever possible for the best texture and flavor. If you're using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. A quick way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 20–30 minutes.

One vital point is to avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Cooking them just until they turn pink and opaque should take about 3-4 minutes on medium heat. They will continue to cook slightly after being added to the oven with the pasta, so it's best to err on the side of undercooking them slightly during the sautéing stage.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this Shrimp Spinach Alfredo Bake stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain the texture and avoid making the pasta mushy. You can also add a splash of cream to the dish before reheating to help rejuvenate the sauce.

For those looking to serve a larger group, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time slightly when baking, as a larger batch might need a few extra minutes in the oven to achieve that golden, bubbly top. A light side salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully to complement this rich dish, offering a balanced meal experience.

Ingredients

For the bake

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turns pink.

Combine Ingredients

In the skillet, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing well before adding the cooked pasta.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Spinach Alfredo Bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you're looking to modify this dish, there are several ingredient substitutions that can work well. For a lighter sauce, you might try using unsweetened almond milk combined with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. If you're gluten-free, consider using gluten-free penne or any pasta made from chickpeas for a protein boost.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, you can easily swap the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, bringing a different yet equally satisfying flavor profile to this bake.

Flavor Enhancements

If you enjoy a bit of zest, adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some zest to the finished dish can brighten up the creamy flavors. This simple enhancement can make a big impact, cutting through the richness of the Alfredo sauce and complementing the shrimp beautifully. Feta or goat cheese can also be sprinkled on top before baking for an unexpected tangy kick.

Another way to enhance the flavors is to include fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. This not only adds freshness but also a beautiful pop of color to the dish.

Making It Ahead

If you’re planning for a busy week, this recipe can be prepared in advance. You can assemble the entire bake without baking, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just extend the baking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure it's heated through. This can be a lifesaver on a hectic evening.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can divide the prepared bake into individual portions before the baking step. These can be frozen in suitable containers and baked straight from frozen, just increase the cooking time to about 30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli or bell peppers would be great additions to the bake.

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.