Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner. With just 30 minutes of preparation time, you can enjoy a comforting dish that will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Profile: The blend of Old Bay seasoning and cheeses creates a rich taste that elevates the shrimp.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or at room temperature; it’s great for potlucks or holiday feasts.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and crispy topping, this casserole is sure to satisfy both shrimp lovers and newcomers alike.
• Easy Cleanup: Using just one casserole dish minimizes your cleanup time after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Shrimp Casserole Recipe successfully, you’ll want to have the right tools on hand. This will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish (2 1/2-quart)
• Large pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: Provides an even baking surface for perfect cooking results.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling shrimp quickly and efficiently.
• Strainer: Helps remove excess water from the shrimp after cooking.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures the casserole reaches a safe internal temperature.

Ingredients

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.

Ingredients (Servings: 8):

For the Shrimp Filling

• 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

For the Topping

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add 1 Tbsp salt and Old Bay Seasoning to the boiling water.
3. Add shrimp and cook for about 30 seconds until they are opaque.
4. Remove shrimp using a strainer and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
5. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before draining any excess water.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In the bowl with shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly.
3. Add mozzarella and cheddar cheeses; mix again until combined.
4. Spread this mixture evenly into your greased casserole dish.

Step 4: Make the Topping

1. In another bowl, melt 1 Tbsp butter.
2. Stir in panko breadcrumbs until they are fully moistened.
3. Sprinkle these breadcrumbs over the shrimp mixture in the casserole dish.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 13-15 minutes until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F using an instant-read thermometer.
2. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes if you desire more browning on top.
3. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casserole!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Serving Shrimp Casserole is a delightful experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. This creamy and cheesy dish can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and appeal.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere at the table.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the top of the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or chives. This adds a vibrant color and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the shrimp.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Offer lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and enhances the seafood flavors beautifully.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include Shrimp Casserole in a buffet spread alongside other dishes. Its creamy texture makes it a favorite among guests, perfect for any occasion.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. This allows everyone to scoop up the delicious casserole while adding a crunchy texture to each bite.

In Individual Portions

• For an elegant touch, serve in individual ramekins. This presentation is perfect for dinner parties and makes each guest feel special.

How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

To ensure your Shrimp Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide better flavor and texture than frozen shrimp, which can be watery if not properly thawed.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery. Remember they will continue cooking while baking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your filling before baking. You may want to add more salt or seasoning based on your preference.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for good quality mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a creamier, richer flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps set it up for easier serving and enhances the flavors.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Shrimp Casserole elevates your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that adds crunch and enhances flavors through its buttery garlic goodness.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a healthy balance and bright color on your plate.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and a slight acidity that pairs well with rich dishes.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies deliver earthy flavors that complement shrimp nicely.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up any extra sauce from the casserole, making every bite delicious.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a delightful summer favorite that pairs perfectly with seafood dishes.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs offers protein and fiber while balancing out the meal’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Shrimp Casserole, it’s essential to avoid common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking Shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough. Only cook until they turn opaque and are just done.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp properly can lead to bland results. Use Old Bay Seasoning generously to enhance flavor.
• Using the Wrong Baking Dish: A dish that’s too small can cause overflow, while one that’s too large may dry out the casserole. Choose a 2 1/2-quart dish for best results.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Serving immediately after baking can result in a mushy texture. Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes to firm up.
• Neglecting Topping Moisture: If the breadcrumbs are too dry, they won’t brown well. Ensure they are evenly moistened with butter before adding them on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Make sure the casserole is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• item Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• item Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• item Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• item Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, checking every minute until hot.
• item Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of shrimp for this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Fresh or frozen large shrimp (21-24 count) works best as they hold their texture and flavor during cooking.

Can I make this Shrimp Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling up to three days in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

How do I add more flavor to my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Consider adding diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions, or use different cheese varieties for added depth.

Is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by substituting panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

What sides pair well with this Shrimp Casserole?

Serve with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole is not only creamy and cheesy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!