Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, showcasing the rich flavors of seafood while being easy to prepare. With its warm, comforting appeal and quick cooking time, this casserole will become a favorite in your home.

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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
• How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
• Step 4: Prepare the Topping
• Step 5: Bake
• How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• With Fresh Salad
• Accompanied by Rice
• With Bread Options
• Topped with Herbs
• 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
• Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• What sides go well with Shrimp Casserole?
• How do I make my Shrimp Casserole spicier?
• Can I substitute other cheeses in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe is ideal for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Old Bay seasoning and cheeses creates a deliciously creamy and savory dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main course or served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole can serve up to 8 people, making it great for family dinners or gatherings.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooked in one dish, this recipe minimizes cleanup time, allowing you to enjoy your meal without hassle.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Shrimp Casserole Recipe successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish
• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (for broiling)

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: A sturdy dish is key for even baking and easy serving.
• Large pot: Boiling shrimp requires enough space to cook evenly without crowding.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly for optimal flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Mixture

• 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Topping

• 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 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). 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 the water for flavor.
• Add shrimp and cook until opaque, about 30 seconds.
• Drain and transfer the shrimp to a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and pepper to the shrimp in the bowl. Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly. Next, add both cheeses (mozzarella and cheddar) and stir again until fully combined. Transfer this mixture into the greased casserole dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

Melt butter in a small pan. Stir in panko bread crumbs until they are well coated in butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp mixture in the casserole dish.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If desired, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden brown topping. Allow it to rest for about 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casserole!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing of a Caesar salad pairs well with the shrimp, adding a nice crunch from croutons.

Accompanied by Rice

• Fluffy White Rice: Serve the casserole over fluffy white rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, try coconut rice; its sweetness complements the shrimp nicely.

With Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls add a comforting touch and are great for mopping up leftovers.

Topped with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and enhances flavor.
• Chives or Green Onions: Chopped chives or green onions provide a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.

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How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

To make your Shrimp Casserole even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp offers superior flavor compared to frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
• Customize Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Broil for Crispiness: Broiling at the end gives the breadcrumb topping an irresistible crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Enhance your meal by pairing your Shrimp Casserole with these delightful side dishes.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a fresh, crunchy element that complements the casserole’s creaminess.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a rich, nutty flavor that contrasts well with seafood.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies makes for a nutritious companion to your casserole.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a fun, casual vibe to your meal and is easy to prepare.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges deliver satisfying crunch and pair nicely with seafood flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Shrimp Casserole Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delightful meal. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough. To prevent this, only cook them until they turn opaque, which takes about 30 seconds.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your shrimp properly can lead to bland flavors. Always remember to add Old Bay seasoning and salt when cooking the shrimp.

• Not greasing the dish: If you forget to grease your casserole dish, the shrimp may stick and become hard to serve. Use butter generously to coat the pan before adding your mixture.

• Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into the casserole right after baking can lead to a soupy mess. Allow it to rest for about 15 minutes so it sets properly.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Using inferior ingredients can compromise flavor and texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp and cheeses for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Transfer to a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Shrimp Casserole Recipe that may help you in your cooking process.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just thaw them completely before cooking according to the recipe instructions.

What sides go well with Shrimp Casserole?

Consider serving garlic bread or a fresh salad alongside this dish for a complete meal that balances flavors.

How do I make my Shrimp Casserole spicier?

To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into your mixture before baking.

Can I substitute other cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors in your Shrimp Casserole Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or altering spices based on your preferences. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress!