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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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until shrimp are just pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
  5. In a large bowl, combine pesto sauce and heavy cream. Stir in cooked pasta and shrimp until evenly coated.
  6. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden.
  8. 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

Keywords: shrimp rigatoni bake, pesto pasta bake, shrimp casserole, baked pasta, creamy pesto shrimp