Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as comforting as it is impressive, this Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole is about to steal your heart. Brimming with tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta all tucked under a bubbly, golden top, it’s the kind of meal everyone races to the table for!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cheesy shrimp pasta casserole shines thanks to simple, flavorful ingredients that come together for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal. Each one brings just the right texture, richness, or pop of color to make every forkful irresistible.

• Penne pasta: The sturdy shape of penne catches all that luscious sauce, making each mouthful satisfying and hearty.
• Butter (divided): Adds luscious flavor to both the shrimp and the cream sauce; using some for sautéing keeps everything silky.
• Olive oil: A splash of olive oil, paired with butter, keeps things from burning and adds complexity.
• Garlic (minced): That savory, aromatic kick elevates every layer of this casserole.
• Uncooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed): Shrimp provide juicy, tender bites—buy medium or large, whatever your store carries.
• Dried parsley: A sprinkle brings herby brightness that lightens the cheese and cream.
• All-purpose flour: The secret to that velvety sauce! Flour acts as a thickener so every bite is rich and creamy.
• Chicken broth: Brings depth and cuts through the richness, balancing out the cheesy sauce.
• Milk: Creams things up and helps the sauce reach just the right consistency.
• Lemon juice: Lifts the seafood flavors and adds a subtle freshness that keeps things from getting too heavy.
• Salt & pepper: Little additions that bring the whole casserole to life—don’t skip them!
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty and nutty, Parmesan melts perfectly for a creamy, flavorful base.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): For a stretch of cheesy goodness plus a golden, bubbly top—pure comfort!

Variations

One of the best things about Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re catering to allergies or simply trying to use up what’s in the fridge, these riffs promise delicious results every time.

• Go gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap in a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce—still creamy and comforting!
• Add veggies: Slip in sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers right before baking for extra color and nutrition.
• Lighten it up: Opt for half-and-half or low-fat milk to tone the richness down a notch without losing creaminess.
• Try a different protein: Replace some or all of the shrimp with chunks of cooked chicken or even lobster for an equally delicious twist.
• Switch up your cheeses: Mix in Gruyère, fontina, or a sharp white cheddar for a whole new flavor profile.

How to Make Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s piping hot and ready for that casserole later. Get a big pot of salted water boiling and cook the penne until just al dente—you want it to still have some bite since it’ll cook a little more in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic

In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden—then toss in the shrimp and dried parsley. Sauté, flipping the shrimp, for 4-5 minutes, until just pink and juicy. Scoop the shrimp out and set them aside, but leave all those buttery, garlicky bits in your skillet for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to your skillet. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk it until you’ve got a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly—go slow here and let the sauce thicken with each addition. Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then add the Parmesan and a bit of mozzarella. Mix until everything’s perfectly melted and the sauce is smooth, creamy, and luscious!

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Gently stir the cooked penne and about three-quarters of your shrimp right into the cheese sauce, making sure every noodle and shrimp is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness. Spread everything into an even layer, then nestle the rest of the shrimp on top. Sprinkle on the remaining mozzarella for that deliciously gooey, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake to Bubbling Perfection

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven (or pour everything into a baking dish if you’re not using an oven-safe skillet) and bake for 10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown. Pull it out, let it stand for a few minutes to set, then scoop out hearty servings while the cheese is still bubbling and irresistible!

How to Serve Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle the finished Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole with fresh chopped parsley or a few cracks of black pepper for a vibrant, inviting finish. A squeeze of lemon over the top right before serving really wakes up those seafood flavors—incredible!

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a zippy vinaigrette, or add garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans are also perfect, balancing the richness of the casserole without overshadowing the star ingredients.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, portion the casserole into individual ramekins for a personalized, elegant touch. Or, serve it straight from the skillet at the table for a more casual, family-style vibe—just don’t forget the big serving spoon and plenty of napkins!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—the flavors just keep getting better!

Freezing

Freeze completely cooled portions, tightly wrapped or in freezer-safe containers, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave (covered) until hot, or warm larger amounts in a 350°F oven until bubbly. Add a tiny splash of milk if the casserole looks dry, and stir gently to bring back the creamy magic.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort and a little bit of culinary flair, give this Cheesy Shrimp Pasta Casserole a go. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together with its cozy, creamy goodness—and trust me, there won’t be a single bite left!

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