Oven-Baked Shrimp Pasta Casserole

Name: Oven-Baked Shrimp Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Heritage Recipes

I absolutely love creating hearty dishes, and this Oven-Baked Shrimp Pasta Casserole has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. It combines tender shrimp with al dente pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with golden cheese. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it brings together flavors that will delight any seafood lover. Every bite is a blend of comfort and sophistication that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

The Chefzachfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:58:18.900Z

In my journey to create satisfying meals, I experimented with different seafood and pasta combinations, and this casserole was born. I found that combining fresh shrimp with a creamy sauce not only elevates the dish but also ensures that each bite has a burst of flavor. It’s crucial to not overcook the shrimp, as they continue to cook in the oven, making them tender and juicy.

Serving it straight from the oven, bubbling with cheese, is a moment I truly cherish. For added freshness, I like to sprinkle some parsley on top just before serving, which complements the richness beautifully. This casserole truly makes my cooking feel like a celebration!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Succulent shrimp baked to perfection in a cheesy pasta hug
Flavorful creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs
A comforting dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare

The Role of Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this casserole, providing moisture and richness that keeps the pasta and shrimp from becoming dry. By using heavy cream, you achieve a luxurious texture that clings to each ingredient. For a lighter alternative, you can swap half of the heavy cream for whole milk. Just be mindful that the sauce may not be as thick, so consider adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to achieve a similar consistency.

Don't forget the flavors! Garlic plays a pivotal role in this dish, infusing the cream with its aromatic qualities. Sauteing garlic until it's just golden brings out its sweetness, which balances perfectly with the savory notes of Italian seasoning. Make sure to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter; a light sauté for just a minute is all it needs.

Perfecting Your Shrimp

When cooking shrimp for this casserole, timing is crucial. Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture, which is far from ideal. Aim for a pale pink color and opaque appearance, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. If you're using frozen shrimp, it's best to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture that could interfere with proper sautéing.

For additional depth, consider marinating the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of cayenne before sautéing. This adds a zesty kick and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Just be careful not to add too much salt at this stage since some salt is already incorporated within the sauce and cheese.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. If you plan to make it ahead, it's crucial not to bake it before storing, as the pasta can become mushy. When you're ready, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. To prevent dryness during reheating, you may want to add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta. If you need a quick meal, this dish can also be frozen; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the shrimp, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and heavy cream. Mix in half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese, reserving the rest for topping.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Garnish and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the casserole mixture before baking.

Creative Variations

This casserole is versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. If you're not a fan of shrimp, consider using chicken or a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as chicken will take longer and vegetables may require less time than shrimp.

For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the shrimp while sautéing. For an Italian flair, consider mixing in artichoke hearts and spinach. The key is to maintain a balance of creaminess and flavor, so adjust seasonings as needed when changing ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Oven-Baked Shrimp Pasta Casserole with a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A refreshing arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully and cuts through the creaminess. You could even add slices of crusty garlic bread for a delightful accompaniment.

For a touch of elegance, consider sprinkling additional fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice on top just before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the overall presentation and flavor, making it a wonderful option for special occasions or family gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and drain them well before using.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or rotini works well, but you can also use any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Definitely! You can substitute shrimp with grilled vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian version of this casserole.