Name: Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 7 oz / 200 g macaroni or other pasta of choice; 1 lb / 500 g mixed raw seafood (Marinara seafood mix); 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil (separated); 2 leeks, white and pale green parts only, finely sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tbsp butter; 3 tbsp flour; 2 1/2 cups milk; 1 chicken bouillon cube (or 1 1/2 tsp chicken stock powder or 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese); 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (highly recommended); Finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 126 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, indulgent meal that combines the fresh flavors of the sea with a luscious, velvety sauce, this Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner. It brings together perfectly cooked pasta, a medley of tender seafood, and a rich creamy sauce baked until golden and bubbly. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish feels special yet is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it the ideal cozy dinner to warm your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white oval dish filled with cooked pasta, pieces of seafood, and small green vegetable slices, forming the bottom layer that looks slightly textured and mixed. Above this, a smooth, creamy white sauce is being poured from a pot over the pasta, covering it evenly with a shiny, thick layer. The background surface is a white marbled texture. The top two smaller pictures show the cooked pasta mixture in the same dish and the sauce gently stirred in a pan with a wooden spoon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe lies not only in its flavor but also in how simple and essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role—fresh seafood brings natural sweetness, leeks add subtle earthiness, and a creamy sauce ties everything together with luxurious texture and a touch of savory depth.

200 g macaroni or pasta of choice: You want a sturdy pasta that holds the sauce well and bakes beautifully without becoming mushy.
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil: Separating the oil ensures you get a good sear on your seafood and a gentle sauté for your leeks and garlic.
500 g mixed raw seafood (Marinara mix): A combination of shrimp, calamari, mussels, or clams works perfectly to deliver that ocean-fresh flavor.
2 leeks (white and pale green parts only): Finely sliced, they add a delicate onion sweetness and lovely texture.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic lifts the flavor and adds warmth to this dish’s complexity.
3 tbsp butter: Essential for creating a silky, smooth roux as the base for the sauce.
3 tbsp flour: This thickens your sauce to just the right consistency for baking.
2 1/2 cups milk: The creamy foundation that brings all the flavors together softly and luxuriously.
1 chicken bouillon cube (or stock powder) or 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds depth, umami, and a touch of saltiness to the sauce.
3/4 cup panko: For that irresistible crispy, golden topping.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top to add a rich and nutty crust after baking.
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens every bite.

How to Make Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to the package instructions so it’s just tender. Then drain it well and transfer it into your baking dish. This is your base layer, ready to soak up the creamy sauce and seafood flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Seafood

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over very high heat. Add the mixed seafood and sear for 30 seconds on each side. The seafood should be slightly raw inside—that quick sear locks in moisture and flavor. Remove the seafood into the baking dish on top of the pasta, setting the stage for all these tasty ingredients to intertwine.

Step 3: Cook Leeks and Garlic

Return the skillet to the stove, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, and reduce heat to medium. Sauté your leeks and minced garlic for about 3 minutes or until they are soft and fragrant. These add a lovely sweet aromatic layer. Mix them into the baking dish with the pasta and seafood.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux—it should smell nutty and be free of any raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk; it will thicken quickly. Then add the remaining milk along with the crumbled chicken bouillon cube or grated parmesan. Continue whisking frequently as the sauce thickens, which should take around 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper for balanced flavor. This sauce brings the signature silky creaminess that makes the Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe so unforgettable.

Step 5: Combine and Top

Pour the luscious sauce evenly over the pasta, seafood, and leeks in the baking dish. Sprinkle the panko and parmesan cheese on top—this will create a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy inside.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the entire dish is bubbling with warmth. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving; this helps the sauce set slightly for perfect spoonfuls every time.

How to Serve Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe

A white bowl with a blue rim holds a creamy pasta dish. At the bottom and filling most of the bowl, there is a layer of short twisted pasta in a thick white sauce. Mixed in are small pieces of light orange shrimp and dark slices of mushrooms. On top, there is a golden brown crumb layer, crisp and slightly textured. Behind this, a small section of dark green cooked leafy vegetables rests on the pasta. A silver spoon with a white handle is placed inside the bowl on the left side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a light gray cloth beneath it. In the background, a large pan filled with the same dish is out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds not only a pop of green color but also a fresh herbal brightness that complements the richness of the bake perfectly. A little lemon zest can be lovely too if you want to brighten things up even more.

Side Dishes

A simple side of garlicky sautéed spinach or a crisp green salad balances the creamy pasta bake by adding freshness and a bit of crunch. Lightly steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables also pair beautifully if you want to add more variety to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized portions that feel so special. Alternatively, add a handful of cooked peas or sweet corn into the mix before baking to introduce bursts of vibrant color and a touch of sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover creamy seafood pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but because of the creamy sauce and seafood, it’s best done early—preferably before baking. Freeze in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F) until warmed through to help keep the topping crisp. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered loosely with a damp paper towel, but the crust may lose some crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your seafood completely and pat it dry before searing, so it cooks evenly and doesn’t release too much water into the dish.

What type of pasta works best for a seafood pasta bake?

Short pasta shapes like macaroni, penne, or rigatoni are ideal because their tubes and ridges hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free spread, use plant-based milk, and opt for nutritional yeast instead of parmesan to keep the savory cheesy notes without dairy.

How can I make this recipe more spicy?

Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce while whisking for a touch of heat. You can also sprinkle a little cayenne pepper on top before baking for a subtle kick.

Can I prepare this dish entirely in advance?

You can assemble the pasta, seafood, leeks, and sauce in the baking dish the day before and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, just top with panko and parmesan and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Seafood Pasta Bake Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate—rich, comforting, and packed with layers of flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Give it a try soon and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.