Name: Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole: A Decadent, Irresistible Comfort Dish 🍤🧀🔥

1. Introduction

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole recipe! Combining succulent shrimp, cheesy tortellini, and a rich Alfredo sauce, this dish is a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy meal, this casserole delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Inspired by the classic flavors from this delicious recipe, we’ve created a baked version that’s even more comforting. The best part? It’s baked to golden perfection, creating a creamy, gooey texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Baked Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole with parsley garnish, ready to serve.

2. Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. For more delicious dinner ideas, check out our collection!

1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes for fresh, 4-5 minutes for frozen). Be careful not to overcook – the pasta will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, why not try one of our other soup recipes as a starter?

Boiling water with tortellini pasta for Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned – this releases the garlic’s aromatic oils. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed. Remove shrimp and set aside. If you love shrimp dishes, you might enjoy our quick empanada recipe too!

Sautéed shrimp in garlic butter for Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wash it – those browned bits add flavor!), pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add Italian seasoning and a pinch of black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly – it should coat the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For more creamy pasta inspiration, check out our Tuscan chicken soup!

Creamy Alfredo sauce with Parmesan cheese for Shrimp Tortellini Casserole.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked tortellini, sautéed shrimp, and Alfredo sauce, being careful not to break the delicate pasta. Transfer this delicious mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top – this will create that beautiful golden crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly around the edges and golden on top. For the final touch, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. If you’re looking for more baked dishes, we’ve got plenty to choose from!

Layered tortellini, shrimp, and Alfredo sauce in a baking dish for casserole.

4. Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole

Use fresh tortellini for the best texture (it holds its shape better during baking), but frozen works in a pinch – just reduce baking time slightly.
For extra richness, add ½ cup of cream cheese to the Alfredo sauce – it creates an even creamier texture.
Substitute shrimp with chicken (try our chicken recipes for inspiration) or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Broil for the last 2 minutes for an extra crispy, restaurant-style cheese topping.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking – this helps the sauce thicken perfectly.

5. Serving Suggestions

This rich casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Try it with a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess, warm garlic bread for dipping, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well) complements the dish beautifully, or try sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic option. If you’re serving this for brunch, add some fresh fruit on the side!

6. Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight! Reheat individual portions in the microwave (covered) at 50% power to prevent the sauce from separating, or reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of milk or cream and stir gently. For more meal prep ideas, check out our wild rice soup!

7. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can assemble it completely (including the cheese topping), cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator while oven preheats, then add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While tortellini works best for this recipe (the cheese filling complements the sauce beautifully), you can substitute with fettuccine, penne, or even cheese ravioli if needed. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the pasta you choose.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Look for gluten-free tortellini (many specialty stores carry them) and ensure all other ingredients (especially the cheeses and seasonings) are gluten-free certified. You can also make your own gluten-free Alfredo sauce using cornstarch as a thickener if needed.

Can I freeze this casserole?

While possible, we don’t recommend freezing as the dairy-based sauce may separate upon thawing. The texture of the shrimp may also change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

9. Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, it’s a dish that will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. The combination of tender shrimp, cheesy tortellini, and rich Alfredo sauce baked to perfection is simply irresistible. Serve it with one of our delicious desserts to complete the meal! Try it today and savor every creamy, cheesy bite – your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️✨