Surf and Turf Pasta Bake

Name: Surf and Turf Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup steak, diced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love how this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake combines the best of both worlds. By embracing the savory flavors of succulent seafood and tender beef, I’ve managed to create a dish that’s both comforting and gourmet. Every bite offers a delightful textural contrast, which I find truly captivating. The rich, creamy sauce binds everything together, making this dish perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The smell of it baking always fills me with anticipation for that first satisfying scoop!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:02:29.904Z

When I first created this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake, I wanted to merge my love for pasta with the flavors of the coast and countryside. The idea blossomed after experimenting with various seafood and beef combinations, ultimately opting for shrimp and tender steak. The resulting medley delighted not only my taste buds but those of my friends and family too, cementing this bake as a go-to dish for gatherings.

One specific tip I picked up while making this is to pre-cook the pasta just until al dente. This way, it perfectly absorbs the creamy sauce and flavors while baking, without turning mushy. Trust me, the extra effort really pays off for an irresistible, cheesy finish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance between tender beef and fresh seafood
Creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops each bite of pasta
Great for meal prep or entertaining guests with style

      

The Role of Ingredients

In this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake, the combination of shrimp and steak not only brings diverse flavors but also a satisfying texture. Shrimp should be fresh, as their delicate nature can easily be overshadowed by stronger flavors unless balanced properly. For the steak, opting for cuts like sirloin or ribeye will add tenderness and richness that complements the dish. Don't hesitate to sprinkle a bit of extra seasoning on both proteins; this enhances their natural flavors and elevates the overall dish.

The cheeses play a crucial role in the creaminess of the sauce. Using a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan provides a wonderful flavor profile: mozzarella offers a gooey texture while Parmesan adds a sharp bite. If you wish to reduce calories, you can try low-fat alternatives, but be cautious as they may not melt perfectly. Freshly grated cheese will yield the best results as it melts smoothly compared to pre-packaged versions.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Achieving the perfect bake is essential. After combining the pasta, sauce, and proteins, make sure the mixture is well distributed in the baking dish. This ensures even cooking and that each bite contains a mix of flavors. I recommend using a 9x13-inch dish for optimal baking. Keep an eye on the cheese during baking to ensure it doesn't brown too quickly; if it does, cover the dish loosely with foil and continue baking until heated through and bubbly.

Letting the dish cool for a few minutes before serving is key. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop out portions without it falling apart. You can also consider broiling the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking for an extra crispy top. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning—it can go from golden to charred swiftly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Surf and Turf Pasta Bake:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup steak, diced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Surf and Turf Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Meat

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the diced steak and season with salt, pepper, and paprika, cooking until browned.

Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, then mix in half of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan until melted and creamy.

Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed meat mixture, and creamy sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, then serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your Surf and Turf Pasta Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the mix. It adds a lovely color and enhances the overall taste!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Surf and Turf Pasta Bake is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. If you're preparing it further in advance, consider freezing it; just bake it directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time and checking for doneness.

Reheating leftovers is straightforward. Simply cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, for a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions. Be cautious, as microwaving can sometimes make pasta rubbery—using a bit of extra cream or water can help maintain its texture.

Customizations and Variations

While the classic combination of shrimp and steak makes for an impressive dish, don't hesitate to get creative with ingredients! For a lighter version, swap the steak for shredded chicken or turkey. You can also try different seafood like scallops or even crab. Each option offers a unique flavor and will still pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and pasta.

Consider adding extra vegetables for color and nutrition. Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can easily be sautéed with the meat mixture. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts the dish’s health factor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to cater to these new ingredients, keeping the balance of flavors in check.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different seafood for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with scallops or crab for a unique twist on the dish.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a day ahead, just cover and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving!

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter as alternatives.

→ Is this dish freezer friendly?

Yes, it can be frozen! Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.