Creamy Shrimp & Scallop Baked Ziti (Seafood Pasta Bake with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce)
This creamy shrimp and scallop baked ziti is a rich, comforting seafood pasta bake loaded with tender shrimp, sweet bay scallops, and a silky roasted red pepper cream cheese sauce. Finished with melted provolone, this easy oven-baked dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something impressive yet simple.
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Baked Ziti
- Creamy and flavorful with a lighter cream cheese sauce
- High in protein from shrimp and scallops
- Easy oven-baked recipe – minimal prep, big results
- Restaurant-quality dish at home
- Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests
Ingredients
- 8 oz uncooked ziti pasta
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 8 oz bay scallops
- 8 oz fat-free cream cheese, softened
- 3 oz shredded sharp provolone cheese
- ½ cup hot water
- 12 oz roasted red bell peppers (jarred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook the ziti according to package directions (without salt or butter). Drain well and set aside.
2. Make the creamy pepper sauce
In a food processor, blend roasted red peppers, hot water, and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Cook the seafood
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add garlic and sauté briefly, then add shrimp and scallops. Cook for about 2 minutes, just until they are nearly done.
4. Combine everything
Pour the roasted red pepper sauce into the pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 2 minutes, stirring.
Add cooked pasta and parsley, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
5. Assemble and bake
Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.
Top with shredded provolone cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Optional broil
For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes until lightly browned.
7. Rest and serve
Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor.
Tips for the Best Seafood Pasta Bake
- Don’t overcook shrimp and scallops—they finish cooking in the oven
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother sauce
- Drain pasta well to avoid excess moisture
- Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce feels too thick
- Broil carefully to avoid burning the cheese
Variations & Add-Ins
Customize your creamy seafood baked ziti with these ideas:
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
- Swap provolone with mozzarella or parmesan
- Use crab or lobster for a more luxurious version
- Make it spicy with red pepper flakes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist
- Replace scallops with more shrimp if preferred
Serving Suggestions
Serve this shrimp and scallop pasta bake with:
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- Fresh green salad
- Steamed vegetables
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This creamy shrimp and scallop baked ziti is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite!
