Surf and Turf Pasta Bake

Name: Surf and Turf Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 lb steak, diced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating dishes that blend the richness of land and sea, and this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake is my ultimate comfort food. By combining succulent steak and tender shrimp with creamy pasta, every bite is an explosion of flavor. The hearty marinara sauce pulls it all together, and the melted cheese on top adds that irresistible gooey texture. This recipe not only satisfies my cravings but also impresses anyone I serve it to. It's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in with friends!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:06:30.527Z

Making this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake was a delightful experience for me. I decided to experiment with combining flavors that I love, like perfectly grilled steak and plump shrimp. The idea of mixing these two protein sources with pasta intrigued me, and I was excited to see just how well they meld together. After a few attempts, I found that using a rich marinara not only enhanced the taste but also made for a creamy consistency that clung beautifully to the pasta.

As I served the dish to friends for dinner, I was thrilled by their reactions. The crispy cheese topping contrasted perfectly with the tender pasta underneath. To elevate the dish even further, I recommend garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, which adds a burst of freshness. It transforms the entire dish and makes it visually stunning!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful contrast of tender steak and juicy shrimp
Rich, creamy marinara sauce that binds everything together
Melted cheese topping for an extra layer of deliciousness

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake lies in the combination of fresh ingredients. The choice of steak is crucial; I recommend a tender cut such as sirloin or ribeye for maximum flavor. These cuts not only cook quickly but also provide a richness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. The shrimp should be fresh or properly thawed to maintain their firm texture, as overcooking can make them chewy.

Marinara sauce is another key player in this dish, giving it depth and moisture. You can opt for store-bought for convenience or make your own from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and a dash of oregano for a more vibrant flavor. When selecting cheese, using a good-quality mozzarella ensures that it melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey topping while the Parmesan contributes a salty kick that enhances the overall profile.

Baking Technique Insights

Achieving the perfect bake requires attention to oven settings and timing. Preheat your oven thoroughly at 375°F (190°C) to ensure that the layers heat evenly and the cheese melts into a creamy consistency, forming a golden crust on top. If your cheese isn't bubbling after 20 minutes, consider broiling for an additional 1-2 minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.

I've found that letting the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking improves its sliceability. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve without falling apart. If you find your bake a bit too dry, consider adding a splash of broth or additional marinara before serving to enhance moisture.

Serving and Variations

This pasta bake is a versatile dish and can be served in various ways. I love pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the bake. For a twist, consider adding seasonal vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mix, which not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors. They can be sautéed along with the steak and shrimp for added texture.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture, or in the microwave in short intervals. You can also freeze the baked pasta for up to three months; just be sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Surf and Turf Pasta Bake:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb steak, diced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Surf and Turf Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Steak and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced steak with salt and pepper, then cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Add the shrimp and garlic, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, sautéed steak and shrimp, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir well to ensure everything is coated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or incorporating seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the mix.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When trying this recipe, the consistency of your sauce can significantly affect the final result. If your marinara seems too dry, add a bit of pasta water or additional sauce while mixing. This helps create a cohesive mixture that prevents the pasta from being overly sticky or dry after baking.

Another common issue is overcooking the shrimp, leading to a rubbery texture. To avoid this, be sure to watch the shrimp closely as they cook until they turn opaque and curl into a ‘C’ shape. If you're unsure, it's better to slightly undercook them; they will finish cooking in the oven.

Make-ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be assembled ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover the dish with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge for about 30 minutes to bring it to room temperature before cooking.

For longer storage, this Surf and Turf Pasta Bake can also be frozen before baking. Wrap the prepared, unbaked dish tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. This method protects it from freezer burn and allows for quick meals on busy days. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your pasta bake, consider incorporating fresh herbs such as basil or oregano into the marinara sauce. These herbs not only provide freshness but also complement the surf and turf elements beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of white wine in the skillet after sautéing the steak and shrimp can add a delightful depth of flavor.

Additionally, experimenting with cheese can also yield delicious outcomes. Try mixing in some asiago or smoked gouda with the mozzarella for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own characteristics to the dish, introducing new layers of taste to your Surf and Turf Pasta Bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape, such as rigatoni or fusilli.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can replace the meat and seafood with grilled vegetables or plant-based proteins.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this pasta bake can be frozen before baking. Just cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking.