Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that combines creamy cheese, tender shrimp, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for holidays or simple weeknight dinners, this casserole stands out with its rich flavors and easy preparation in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress!

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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 Shrimp Mixture
• For the Topping
• For Garnish
• How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• 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
• Individual Portions
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Lemon Wedges
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Hot Sauce
• As Part of a Buffet
• 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 season shrimp for this casserole?
• Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
• How do I prevent excess liquid in my casserole?
• What side dishes pair well with this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• Can I customize this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of shrimp, cheeses, and Old Bay Seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: This casserole can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for gatherings and potlucks.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and cheesy goodness of this shrimp casserole.
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prepare the filling in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when you’re ready for a hassle-free meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for this shrimp casserole recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish (2 1/2-quart)
• Large pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: Ensures even baking and proper presentation of your shrimp casserole.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling water quickly and cooking shrimp efficiently.
• Strainer: Allows you to remove cooked shrimp easily without losing any during transfer.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without 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 Shrimp Mixture

• 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

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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 (or an equivalent size like a 9×9 square dish or deep skillet) with butter.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

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

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. To the cooled shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to coat evenly.
2. Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses; mix again until well combined.
3. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Step 4: Make the Topping

1. In a separate bowl, melt 1 Tbsp butter in the microwave or on the stove.
2. Stir in panko breadcrumbs until they are evenly moistened.
3. Evenly sprinkle these breadcrumbs over the shrimp mixture in the casserole dish.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Place your casserole in the oven uncovered at 375°F for about 13-15 minutes.
2. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
3. For added crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown on top.
4. Allow it to rest for about 15 minutes before serving; this can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casserole!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Individual Portions

• Serve the casserole in small ramekins for individual servings. This adds a personal touch and makes it easy for guests to enjoy their meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds freshness to the dish.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Offer lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors of the shrimp and complements the creaminess of the casserole.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the casserole over a bed of mixed greens. This adds color and provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

With Hot Sauce

• Provide hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat. It’s a simple way to customize each serving according to personal taste.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include this casserole in a buffet spread with other dishes like salads and bread. It’s perfect for entertaining and allows guests to sample various flavors.

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 enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole, making it more enjoyable.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they are opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, affecting the overall dish.
• Customize Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor and variety.
• Preheat Oven Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve an even cook and crispy topping.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps set the layers, making it easier to serve.
• Store Leftovers Correctly: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.

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Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Pairing sides with your Shrimp Casserole can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread – A crunchy, buttery garlic bread pairs well with the creamy casserole, perfect for soaking up any excess sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – The crispness of romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the richness of shrimp casserole nicely.
3. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh green element while balancing out the hearty dish.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is an excellent base that absorbs flavors from the casserole.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, creating a refreshing contrast to the creamy shrimp dish.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing both flavor and presentation on your table.
7. Cornbread – Moist cornbread brings sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser.
8. Baked Potatoes – Simple baked potatoes offer comfort and can be topped with butter or sour cream as desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Shrimp Casserole Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure the dish turns out perfectly. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough. Only cook until they turn opaque, about 30 seconds in boiling water.
• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning your shrimp properly can lead to bland results. Use Old Bay Seasoning and salt to enhance flavor.
• Using the wrong baking dish: Using a dish that’s too small can cause overflow. Choose a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish or similar size for best results.
• Neglecting to cool shrimp: Adding hot shrimp directly to the mixture can affect the texture. Let them cool before mixing with other ingredients.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately might lead to a runny casserole. Let it sit for 15 minutes before serving for better consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium power, checking every minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season shrimp for this casserole?

For this Shrimp Casserole Recipe, using Old Bay Seasoning adds great flavor. Make sure to coat the shrimp evenly.

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them properly before cooking and follow the same instructions.

How do I prevent excess liquid in my casserole?

To avoid excess liquid, ensure your shrimp are cooked just right and let them cool before mixing with other ingredients.

What side dishes pair well with this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables, balancing its richness perfectly.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is not only delicious but also offers versatility for any occasion. It’s perfect for holidays or simple weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasoning. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!