Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with perfectly cooked shrimp, all topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s not only easy to prepare in just 30 minutes but also perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This casserole stands out with its rich flavors and inviting aroma, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole
• For Garnish
• How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 3: Prepare the Filling
• Step 4: Make the Topping
• Step 5: Bake the Casserole
• How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Casual Family Dinner
• Formal Gatherings
• Potlucks and Gatherings
• How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is the best way to serve Shrimp Casserole?
• Can I make this Shrimp Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
• What types of shrimp work best for this recipe?
• How can I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• Can I use frozen shrimp?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is great for busy nights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of shrimp, cheeses, and Old Bay seasoning delivers an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or at room temperature; it’s perfect for potlucks or family meals.
• Easy Cleanup: Using one dish for preparation means fewer dishes to wash afterward.
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling in advance, making it even easier to serve when guests arrive.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will help streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish
• Large pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: Provides even cooking and allows for easy serving.
• Large pot: Perfect for boiling shrimp quickly without overcrowding.
• Strainer: Ensures quick draining of the shrimp without making a mess.

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 Casserole

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Step 1: 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.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 Tbsp salt and 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for about 30 seconds until they are opaque and cooked through.
3. Use a strainer to remove the shrimp from the pot and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
4. Allow the shrimp to cool for a few minutes before draining any excess water from the bowl, using a paper towel if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

To the shrimp in the mixing bowl, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir gently to coat all shrimp evenly. Then sprinkle in both shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses before stirring again to combine thoroughly. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Step 4: Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, melt 1 Tbsp butter. Stir in panko breadcrumbs until they are evenly moistened. Once ready, sprinkle these breadcrumbs over the top of your shrimp mixture in the casserole dish.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered at 375°F for about 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (use an instant-read thermometer). For an extra touch of crispiness, broil on high for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before serving; this can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Serving your Shrimp Casserole is just as important as preparing it. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its appeal for any occasion.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve with a Simple Salad: Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Accompany with Garlic Bread: A warm side of garlic bread complements the flavors and adds a comforting touch.

Formal Gatherings

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling fresh parsley or chives on top can elevate the presentation for special occasions.
• Offer Lemon Wedges: Providing lemon wedges allows guests to add a zesty flavor that brightens the dish.

Potlucks and Gatherings

• Portion into Individual Servings: Consider serving smaller portions in ramekins for easy transport and serving at potlucks.
• Pair with White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine can enhance the flavors, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.

How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

To make your Shrimp Casserole truly outstanding, follow these expert tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
• Careful Cooking: Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just opaque when added to the casserole for optimal texture.
• Even Mixing: Ensure that all ingredients are well combined to distribute flavors evenly throughout the casserole.
• Crispy Topping: For extra crunch, broil the casserole briefly after baking—just watch closely to prevent burning.
• Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps flavors meld and makes it easier to cut into portions.
• Make Ahead: Prepare your filling ahead of time and refrigerate. Just add breadcrumbs and bake when ready.

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Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Pairing your Shrimp Casserole with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting contrast to the casserole.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds color and a nutritious balance to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and freshness that pairs beautifully with rich casseroles.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that adds sweetness and texture, perfect for summer meals.
5. Roasted Broccoli: Roasting broccoli enhances its flavor, providing a healthy, vibrant side dish option.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with veggies offers a hearty yet light accompaniment that’s full of nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Shrimp Casserole Recipe, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. To avoid this, cook shrimp just until they turn opaque, usually about 30 seconds in boiling water.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough seasoning can result in bland flavors. Make sure to use Old Bay Seasoning and salt to enhance the dish’s taste.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting texture. Choose good-quality mozzarella and cheddar for a creamy finish.
• Ignoring cooling time: Serving the casserole immediately may lead to a runny texture. Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving for better consistency.
• Using a shallow baking dish: A thin layer of shrimp mixture may dry out during baking. Opt for a deeper casserole dish to keep moisture locked in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power, heating in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Shrimp Casserole?

This Shrimp Casserole is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Can I make this Shrimp Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just add the breadcrumb topping before baking.

What types of shrimp work best for this recipe?

Large shrimp (21-24 count) are ideal as they hold up well during cooking and provide great flavor.

How can I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or swap cheeses according to your preference.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking. This helps maintain texture and flavor in your casserole.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses and vegetables based on your taste preferences. It’s perfect for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners alike—give it a try!

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