Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that combines the tenderness of shrimp with a creamy sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of cheese and Old Bay seasoning elevates the dish, making it a must-try for 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 Shrimp
• For the Sauce
• For Topping
• For Cheese
• How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 3: Mix Ingredients
• Step 4: Prepare Breadcrumb Topping
• Step 5: Bake and Serve
• How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Elegant Plating
• With a Side Salad
• Accompanied by Crusty Bread
• As Part of a Seafood Feast
• With Lemon Wedges
• 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 a Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• Can I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• How spicy is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• What can I serve with my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious casserole ready in under 35 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: The use of Old Bay seasoning and a blend of cheeses creates a rich flavor profile that your taste buds will love.
• Versatile Dish: This shrimp casserole can be served as a main dish or a side, making it perfect for any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests, ensuring everyone leaves happy and satisfied.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture and cheesy topping warm you from the inside out, making it the ultimate comfort food choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Shrimp Casserole Recipe smoothly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this satisfying dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish
• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: This is where your shrimp casserole will bake, allowing even cooking and perfect presentation.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling the shrimp quickly without crowding them, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly, making sure every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water

For the Sauce

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Topping

• 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

For Cheese

• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese

How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Old Bay seasoning to infuse flavor into the shrimp. Once boiling:
1. Add the shrimp and cook until opaque, about 30 seconds.
2. Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In the bowl with the cooked shrimp:
1. Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and pepper.
2. Stir gently to coat all shrimp evenly.
3. Mix in mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until well combined.
4. Transfer this mixture into your greased casserole dish.

Step 4: Prepare Breadcrumb Topping

In a small pan:
1. Melt butter over low heat.
2. Stir in panko bread crumbs until they are well coated with butter.
3. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp in the casserole dish.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. To achieve a golden brown topping:
1. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes carefully watching not to burn it.
2. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before serving so flavors meld beautifully.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casserole!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Serving your Shrimp Casserole can elevate the dining experience, making it both enjoyable and visually appealing. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this dish.

Elegant Plating

• Use a large, shallow platter to showcase the casserole’s crispy topping and creamy shrimp filling. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the casserole with a light salad, such as arugula or mixed greens. A simple vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. This allows guests to scoop up any leftover casserole and adds texture to the meal.

As Part of a Seafood Feast

• Include other seafood dishes like crab cakes or scallops for a themed dinner. This makes for an impressive spread and satisfies seafood lovers.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges on the side can enhance the flavors. The acidity cuts through the richness, brightening the overall taste.

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How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Achieving perfection in your Shrimp Casserole requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp provides better flavor and texture than frozen varieties.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until opaque; they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Customize Seasoning: Feel free to adjust seasonings based on your preference. Adding cayenne pepper can give it a spicy kick.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it set, making it easier to serve.
• Cover During Baking: If you notice browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil during baking.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Pairing your Shrimp Casserole with complementary side dishes enhances the meal and creates a balanced plate. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the richness of the casserole well.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the dish’s creaminess.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast, providing freshness that works beautifully with seafood.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs can soak up any sauce from the casserole while adding substance.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add nutrition and vibrant colors, making for an appealing plate.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair nicely, offering a delightful sweetness against savory flavors.
7. Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine and creamy dressing that complements seafood nicely.
8. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies adds a healthy touch and is gluten-free!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing a Shrimp Casserole. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough. Always cook just until they turn opaque, about 30 seconds in boiling water.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the dish properly can lead to bland flavors. Use Old Bay seasoning and taste your mixture before baking.
• Not greasing the casserole dish: A sticky casserole is frustrating. Always grease your pan with butter to ensure easy serving.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the casserole immediately can result in a watery dish. Let it rest for 15 minutes to set properly.
• Using regular breadcrumbs instead of panko: Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you that perfect crispy topping. Always opt for panko for better texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap well in plastic wrap.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

A Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a baked dish that combines shrimp with creamy ingredients and a crunchy topping, perfect for a quick dinner.

Can I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch cheeses based on your preference.

How spicy is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

The level of spice can be adjusted by adding more or less Old Bay seasoning according to your taste.

What can I serve with my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients, making it suitable for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!