Shrimp Pesto Rigatoni Bake
Shrimp Pesto Rigatoni Bake is a comforting and savory casserole dish that combines tender shrimp, rigatoni pasta, creamy pesto sauce, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until shrimp are just pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine pesto sauce and heavy cream. Stir in cooked pasta and shrimp until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they will finish in the oven.
- Use whole milk or half-and-half if you prefer a lighter cream sauce.
- Can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
Keywords: shrimp rigatoni bake, pesto pasta bake, shrimp casserole, baked pasta, creamy pesto shrimp