Easy Seafood Casserole

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Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender shrimp baked to golden perfection—this Easy Seafood Casserole has become my go-to comfort meal when I want something hearty yet elegant. The aroma of garlic and melted cheese filling the kitchen while it bakes is just unbeatable. It’s the kind of dish that feels like you’ve treated yourself at a fancy restaurant, but it comes together effortlessly right in your own oven.

I love how versatile this recipe is. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, entertaining guests, or just need something easy for a weeknight, this casserole fits right in. With a velvety sauce, juicy seafood, and golden-baked top, it’s that kind of soul-warming dish that gets people asking for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Seafood Casserole

This casserole is the definition of comfort with a coastal twist. It’s rich without being too heavy, flavorful without needing tons of ingredients, and it’s designed for minimal prep. If you’re into creamy baked dishes that deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture, this one checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s great for using frozen shrimp or seafood mixes you already have on hand—making it as practical as it is delicious.

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What Kind of Seafood Should I Use?

That’s the beauty of this Easy Seafood Casserole—it’s totally flexible. I typically go for shrimp because they cook quickly and bring that sweet, ocean-kissed flavor. But you can easily mix in scallops, chunks of white fish like cod or halibut, or even crab meat if you’re feeling indulgent. A frozen seafood medley works great too; just make sure everything is thawed and patted dry to avoid extra liquid in the dish. The goal is to keep the texture buttery and the sauce nice and creamy.

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Options for Substitutions

No cream? You can swap it for half-and-half or even a mix of milk and a tablespoon of flour to thicken. Want it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free pasta or layer it over rice instead. If you’re dairy-free, a plant-based butter and coconut cream combo can still give that creamy consistency (with a bit of a tropical vibe). Not a fan of shrimp? Salmon chunks or even imitation crab can be surprisingly tasty. You’ve got options—this casserole doesn’t judge.

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Ingredients for This Easy Seafood Casserole

Shrimp
The star of the show—plump, juicy shrimp add a sweet, briny flavor that balances beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells)
These shapes hold the sauce well, soaking up all that rich, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Butter
Used to sauté garlic and build the base of the creamy sauce—rich, flavorful, and essential.

Garlic
A few cloves bring that warm, savory aroma that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.

All-Purpose Flour
This helps thicken the sauce, giving it that velvety, spoon-coating texture we want in a casserole.

Heavy Cream
For a rich and indulgent base. It creates a luscious sauce that wraps around the pasta and shrimp like a cozy blanket.

Parmesan Cheese
Nutty, salty, and melts beautifully—this adds both flavor and a golden crust when baked.

Mozzarella Cheese
Melts to a gooey, stretchy finish and helps create that irresistible top layer.

Salt & Pepper
Simple but necessary—seasoning helps everything come alive and keeps the flavors balanced.

Fresh Parsley (optional)
Sprinkled on top for a pop of freshness and a little color contrast after baking.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. You want it slightly undercooked since it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Start the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to brown it—it should be golden and aromatic.

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Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

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Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses

Add the Parmesan and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well, coating every piece. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.

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Step 6: Add the Shrimp

Place the shrimp evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Gently press them in so they nestle slightly into the sauce without being fully submerged.

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Step 7: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden and the shrimp are fully cooked.

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Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

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How Long to Cook the Easy Seafood Casserole

The casserole should bake for 20 to 25 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). You’re looking for bubbly edges, golden cheese on top, and fully cooked shrimp that are opaque and slightly pink. If you’re using larger or mixed seafood, you might need to add a few extra minutes—just keep an eye on it.

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Tips for Perfect Easy Seafood Casserole

• Use Raw Shrimp: Pre-cooked shrimp will turn rubbery when baked. Go for raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture.
• Thaw Seafood Properly: If using frozen seafood, make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry to avoid a watery casserole.
• Undercook the Pasta Slightly: It will finish cooking in the oven, so keeping it just shy of al dente prevents mushiness.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated is worth it.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the shrimp—they cook fast. Overbaking will dry them out and make the texture tough.
• Let It Rest: Give the casserole 5–10 minutes to settle before serving so the sauce thickens up just right.
• Taste the Sauce Before Baking: Once the cheese melts in, taste it and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Use a Broiler Finish: For an extra golden top, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes—just watch it closely!

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Shrimp: This is the most common pitfall. Shrimp only need a short time to cook. If they’re rubbery, they’ve gone too far.
• Using Wet Seafood: Excess moisture will water down your sauce. Always pat seafood dry after thawing.
• Skipping the Cheese Sauce Step: Don’t just toss cheese into the pasta dish—it needs to melt into the cream base for that luscious texture.
• Using Pre-Cooked Pasta Too Soft: If your pasta is fully cooked before baking, it’ll turn mushy. Slightly undercook it.
• Not Seasoning the Sauce Enough: Cheese adds salt, but you still need to season the sauce to bring out the full flavor.
• Adding All the Cheese on Top: Save some, but most should go into the sauce itself for the best consistency.
• Using the Wrong Bakeware Size: A dish that’s too deep won’t bake evenly. Use a shallow casserole dish for better results.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving—this helps the sauce set and improves the flavor.

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What to Serve With Easy Seafood Casserole?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness.

Lemon Asparagus

The citrusy bite of lemon pairs beautifully with seafood.

A Glass of White Wine

Try a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for a light, elegant match.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds color, crunch, and nutrition to the plate.

Herb Roasted Potatoes

A rustic, earthy side to round out the meal.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and vibrant—adds a pop of acidity and texture.

Steamed Green Beans with Butter

Simple and classic, with a fresh snap in every bite.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container or wrap the dish tightly with foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the shrimp might be slightly less tender that way.

Freezing? It’s possible, but best done before baking. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual—just add a few extra minutes of baking time.

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Estimated Nutrition

Keep in mind these values are approximate and will vary based on the exact ingredients you use:

• Calories: 480 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 165mg

This casserole packs in a good amount of protein from the shrimp and cheese while staying indulgent and filling. If you’re watching fat or calories, consider using lighter cream alternatives or cutting back on the cheese.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of shrimp should I use?

Raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp are best. Medium to large size works well so they don’t overcook too quickly in the oven.

Can I use frozen shrimp or seafood mix?

Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before adding it to the casserole. Extra moisture can water down the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all—but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want to give it a little kick.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the entire dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s great for meal planning or dinner parties.

Can I use other types of seafood?

Definitely! Scallops, crab meat, or chunks of firm white fish like cod or haddock work beautifully in this casserole.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour to keep the sauce creamy.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—just use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The cheese should be melted and golden, and the shrimp should be opaque and pink. A bubbly edge is a good sign it’s ready.

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Conclusion

This Easy Seafood Casserole is comfort food with a splash of coastal flair. It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying—but still simple enough for a casual weeknight dinner. Whether you’re serving it for family or hosting guests, it brings a little bit of elegance to the table without the fuss. With flexible ingredients and make-ahead options, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. If you love cheesy pasta and seafood, this is your perfect match.

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