Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This creamy and cheesy Shrimp Casserole is a comforting dish that’s quick to prepare yet rich in flavor. With a buttery topping of golden panko breadcrumbs, it offers the perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or craving a hearty weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy family meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: A rich and satisfying flavor combination that everyone will love.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different cheeses or seasoning.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot: For boiling shrimp.
Mixing bowls: To combine ingredients.
Casserole dish: A 2 1/2-quart dish or similar size (options include 9×9 square dish, 9-inch pie pan, or deep 10-inch skillet).
Strainer: To drain shrimp.
Thermometer: Instant-read for checking the casserole’s temperature.
Spatula or spoon: For mixing and spreading the filling.

Why These Tools Are Important

A large pot ensures the shrimp cook evenly without overcrowding.
Mixing bowls keep ingredients separate and organized during preparation.
The casserole dish provides even baking for a perfectly cooked dish.
A thermometer ensures your casserole is heated to perfection without overbaking.

Preparation Tips

Thaw Shrimp Properly: If using frozen shrimp, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for 15-20 minutes.
Pat Dry: Excess water can make the casserole soggy, so pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
Preheat the Oven: Always preheat to ensure even cooking.
Grease the Dish: Use butter for added flavor and to prevent sticking.

Ingredients (Servings: 8)

2 lbs large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
1 Tbsp salt (for cooking water)
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 Tbsp butter (plus extra to grease the pan)
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish (or similar-sized pan) with butter.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 Tbsp salt and 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning.
Add the shrimp and cook for 30 seconds, just until opaque and cooked through.
Remove the shrimp using a strainer and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Let the shrimp cool for a few minutes, then drain any excess water. (Use a paper towel if needed.)

3. Prepare the Filling

Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper to the shrimp. Stir to coat evenly.
Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, mixing to combine.
Spread the shrimp mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.

4. Make the Topping

Melt 1 Tbsp butter in a small bowl. Stir in panko breadcrumbs until evenly moistened.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp and cheese filling.

5. Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered at 375°F for 13-15 minutes, or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes to brown the breadcrumb topping.

6. Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella or cheddar with gruyere or gouda for a twist.
Breadcrumb Variations: Add grated Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley to the breadcrumb topping for extra flavor.
Seasoning Adjustments: Enhance the shrimp with cayenne for a bit of heat or lemon zest for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

The creamy, cheesy richness of shrimp casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

1. Roasted Vegetables

Asparagus: Lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted to perfection.
Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.

2. Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, Parmesan, and crunchy croutons tossed with creamy Caesar dressing.
Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine with a light vinaigrette.

3. Starchy Sides

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they balance the shrimp casserole’s rich flavors.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread brushed with garlic butter for dipping into the cheesy casserole.

4. Rice or Pasta

Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice with a hint of citrus to cut through the richness.
Pasta Primavera: A light and colorful option with fresh vegetables and olive oil.

5. Soup Starters

Tomato Basil Soup: Its tangy sweetness pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole.
Seafood Chowder: Double down on the seafood theme with a hearty starter.

6. Drinks & Beverages

White Wine: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay.
Sparkling Water: Add a twist of lime for a refreshing option.

7. Desserts

Lemon Bars: A bright, zesty dessert to cleanse the palate.
Cheesecake: A decadent finish to complement the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistake 1: Overcooking the Shrimp

Why It’s an Issue: Shrimp becomes rubbery when overcooked.
Solution: Cook shrimp for no more than 30 seconds in boiling water. They’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Mistake 2: Soggy Casserole

Why It’s an Issue: Excess water from shrimp or improperly thawed frozen shrimp can make the dish watery.
Solution: Pat shrimp dry before cooking, and drain any liquid from the mixing bowl before baking.

Mistake 3: Uneven Baking

Why It’s an Issue: Hot spots in the oven can lead to unevenly melted cheese or undercooked shrimp.
Solution: Rotate the dish halfway through baking for consistent results.

Mistake 4: Bland Flavor

Why It’s an Issue: Without proper seasoning, the casserole may lack depth.
Solution: Use Old Bay Seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper generously. Add a pinch of cayenne if you enjoy heat.

Mistake 5: Overbrowning the Topping

Why It’s an Issue: Overbroiling can lead to burnt breadcrumbs.
Solution: Broil for only 1-2 minutes while keeping a close watch to ensure a golden-brown crust.

Side Dish Recommendations

To further inspire your meal planning, here are detailed suggestions for some of the best side dishes:

1. Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

Roast asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a crispy, cheesy complement.

2. Lemon Herb Rice

Cook rice with chicken broth and stir in fresh parsley, dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

3. Caesar Salad

Toss crisp romaine with homemade Caesar dressing, croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Boil Yukon Gold potatoes, mash with butter, cream, and roasted garlic for a creamy side.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roast halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until caramelized.

6. Fresh Garden Salad

Mix cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, and spring greens. Top with a light vinaigrette.

7. Crusty Garlic Bread

Slice a French baguette, brush with garlic butter, and bake until golden and crisp.

8. Grilled Vegetables

Grill zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with a touch of olive oil for a smoky side.

Recipe Tips

1. Customize the Cheese Blend

Try using gruyere, gouda, or even pepper jack cheese for a unique flavor twist.
Add Parmesan to the breadcrumb topping for extra savory notes.

2. Enhance the Flavor

Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to the shrimp mixture for a fresh burst of flavor.
A dash of lemon zest brightens the dish and complements the shrimp beautifully.

3. Breadcrumb Variations

For extra crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers.
Add a pinch of paprika to the breadcrumb topping for color and a hint of spice.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.

5. Make It Spicy

Sprinkle cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the shrimp mixture for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

1. Storing Leftovers

Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole (tightly covered) for up to 2 months.

2. Reheating

Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from overbrowning.
Air Fryer: For crispy breadcrumbs, reheat single portions in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave for a quick option, but note the topping may lose its crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, you can! If using pre-cooked shrimp, skip the boiling step and proceed with mixing the shrimp into the casserole filling. Reduce the baking time by about 5 minutes to prevent overcooking.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the shrimp mixture (Step 3), cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.

3. Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

If you prefer, swap the mayonnaise for sour cream, Greek yogurt, or cream cheese. Each option provides a slightly different texture and flavor but works well.

4. What can I do if the casserole is too watery?

Shrimp sometimes release liquid during baking. To avoid this:

Pat the shrimp dry before mixing.
If excess liquid appears after baking, carefully absorb it with a paper towel.

5. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! The casserole can be made ahead, stored, and reheated, making it a great option for weekly meal planning.

6. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Consider mixing in spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Casserole combines the irresistible flavors of tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and buttery breadcrumbs into a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or putting together a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Make it your own with customizations, serve it alongside your favorite side dishes, and enjoy its comforting, rich taste with family and friends. Don’t forget to share this recipe with those who love shrimp and casseroles as much as you do!

Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and buttery dish topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s easy to prepare in just 30 minutes and is perfect for holidays or simple weeknight dinners.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Cooling Time 15

Total Time 35

Servings 8

Calories 354kcal

Ingredients

2 lbs large shrimp 21-24 count, peeled and deveined
1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
1 Tbsp salt for cooking water
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 Tbsp butter plus extra to grease the pan
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese

Instructions

Prep the Oven and Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Grease a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish (or a 9×9 square dish, 9-inch pie pan, or deep 10-inch skillet) with butter.

Cook the Shrimp

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 Tbsp salt and 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning.
Add the shrimp and cook for 30 seconds, just until opaque and cooked through.
Remove the shrimp using a strainer and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Let the shrimp cool for a few minutes, then drain any excess water from the bowl (use a paper towel if necessary).

Prepare the Filling

To the shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly.
Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and stir again to combine.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, melt 1 Tbsp butter and stir in the panko breadcrumbs until evenly moistened.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the shrimp mixture.

Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered at 375°F for 13-15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F (use an instant-read thermometer).
Broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the breadcrumbs.
Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great dish for transport.

Notes

Excess Liquid: Some shrimp may release liquid during baking, especially if overcooked or improperly thawed. If this happens, soak up the liquid with a paper towel.
Baking Dish Options: Use a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish, a deep 10-inch skillet, a 9×9 square casserole dish, or a 9-inch pie pan.
Make Ahead: Prepare the shrimp filling (Step 3), cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, add the breadcrumb topping and bake as directed.
Leftovers: Store covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.

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