Surf and Turf Pasta Bake

Name: Surf and Turf Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup cooked steak, sliced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

I love combining land and sea in the kitchen, and this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake is one of my favorites. The rich flavors of succulent shrimp and tender steak meld together with hearty pasta and a creamy sauce, creating a dish that's both comforting and indulgent. It's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time, making it an effortless choice that never fails to impress my guests.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:26:30.888Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how well the flavors of the shrimp and steak complemented each other. The trick is to sauté the protein separately before mixing it into the pasta. This ensures that both the shrimp and steak retain their individual flavors and textures, resulting in a truly delicious meal. I also love how versatile this bake is; you can easily swap out the protein depending on what you have available.

One tip I've learned is to use a mix of cheeses for the topping. Combining mozzarella and parmesan gives a unique flavor profile and a beautiful golden crust. It's a simple addition that elevates the whole dish and makes every bite incredibly satisfying. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delicious blend of juicy steak and succulent shrimp.
Creamy sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly.
A family-friendly dish that's sure to impress guests.

      

Perfecting Your Pasta Bake Technique

To achieve the ideal texture in your Surf and Turf Pasta Bake, it's essential to cook the penne just until al dente. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during the baking process. I recommend boiling the pasta for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. After draining, a quick rinse under cold water can stop the cooking process and set it aside until you're ready to combine it with the other ingredients.

The sautéing of garlic, shrimp, and steak in olive oil is crucial for building flavor. Ensure your pan is hot enough so the garlic turns fragrant but doesn't burn. This stage should take no longer than 4 minutes, as overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. If using steak leftovers, taste for seasoning first; the dish may need less salt and pepper than if starting from scratch.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The creamy sauce, a blend of marinara and heavy cream, is versatile and can be easily adjusted. If you prefer a slightly tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of lemon juice to the sauce before mixing in the pasta. In contrast, for a richer palate, a tablespoon of pesto or sundried tomatoes can elevate the dish further. Mixing gently ensures every piece of pasta receives a luscious coating.

For the cheese topping, using a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan is not only traditional but effective. Mozzarella gives that gooey, stretchy quality, while Parmesan adds a salty, sharp finish. If you're looking for a bolder flavor, experiment with smoked mozzarella or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before baking to infuse a unique aroma. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate tastes of shrimp and steak.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

8 oz penne pasta
1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cooked steak, sliced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Proteins

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cooked shrimp and steak, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the marinara sauce and heavy cream until well combined. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring until fully coated.

Combine and Bake

Fold the sautéed shrimp and steak into the pasta mixture. Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute the proteins or use a different cheese if you prefer.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake ahead of time can save you effort on a busy weeknight. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply layer the pasta, proteins, and sauce in a greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap, sprinkle with cheese, and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through thoroughly.

If you want even more convenience, consider freezing the assembled dish. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, cook it at 350°F (175°C) for about 60-70 minutes, or until it is heated all the way through and the cheese is bubbly. Always allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, fresh salad featuring mixed greens and a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta bake. Consider adding slices of avocado for creaminess or cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness. Garlic bread on the side is another great accompaniment, offering a satisfying crunch and extra flavor to soak up any creamy sauce.

For a festive touch, you could also serve this dish with a glass of chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the seafood elements beautifully. Additionally, if you're hosting a gathering, serve it family-style directly from the baking dish for a rustic appeal, garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley to enhance presentation and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and assemble it ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Increase baking time by a few minutes if baking from cold.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream for a lighter version, though it may alter the overall creaminess.

→ Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What type of cheese works best?

A combination of mozzarella and parmesan works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for different flavors.