Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy interior and crispy breadcrumb topping, this casserole stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simple weeknight dinners, it’s easy to prepare in just 30 minutes. Whether you are serving family or guests, this recipe guarantees smiles all around!

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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 Filling
• For 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
• Step 6: Let it Rest
• How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Casual Family Dinner
• Holiday Gatherings
• Potluck Events
• Leftover Lunches
• 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?
• How long does it take to prepare this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• Can I customize the ingredients in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• What is the best way to serve this Shrimp Casserole?
• How do I know when my Shrimp Casserole is done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This shrimp casserole can be made in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of shrimp, creamy mayonnaise, and savory cheeses creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as part of a buffet; it fits perfectly into any meal setting.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: With its cheesy goodness and crispy topping, this casserole is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Easy Cleanup: The use of one baking dish means less time spent washing up after the meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Shrimp Casserole smoothly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish (2 1/2-quart)
• Large pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: A proper casserole dish ensures even cooking and presentation when serving.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the shrimp quickly without overcrowding the pan.
• Strainer: Helps easily remove the shrimp from boiling water without losing any pieces.

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 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 your casserole dish with butter to ensure an easy release after baking.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil.
2. Add 1 Tbsp salt and 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning.
3. Add the shrimp; cook for about 30 seconds until they turn opaque.
4. Remove the 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 from the bowl.

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; stir again until combined.
3. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Step 4: Make the Topping

In another bowl, melt 1 Tbsp butter. Stir in panko breadcrumbs until they are evenly moistened. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the top of your shrimp filling.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered at 375°F for about 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F using an instant-read thermometer. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes if you like your breadcrumbs extra crispy.

Step 6: Let it Rest

Allow your casserole to rest for about 15 minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Serving shrimp casserole is a delightful experience that can be enjoyed in various ways. This creamy dish is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve with a Side Salad: A fresh garden salad can balance the richness of the casserole.
• Pair with Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors and adds a crunchy texture.

Holiday Gatherings

• Present in Individual Portions: Use ramekins for individual servings, making it easy for guests to enjoy.
• Accompany with Champagne: A glass of bubbly elevates the dining experience during festive occasions.

Potluck Events

• Bring in a Disposable Dish: A disposable casserole dish makes transport easy and cleanup simple.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding chopped parsley or chives before serving enhances presentation and flavor.

Leftover Lunches

• Serve Cold or Warm: This casserole tastes great warm or at room temperature, ideal for packed lunches.
• Add Hot Sauce: A drizzle of hot sauce can spice up the leftovers for an extra kick.

How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect shrimp casserole requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor and texture; make sure they are peeled and deveined.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until opaque, as they will continue to cook while baking.
• Mix Cheese Varieties: Combining different cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar adds depth of flavor and creaminess.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to add more Old Bay or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

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Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your shrimp casserole enhances the meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this savory dish well.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a healthy twist and nutty flavor.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts are a delicious side that brings out earthy flavors.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and balances the richness of the casserole nicely.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully, adding sweetness and brightness to your plate.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious Shrimp Casserole, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp for too long can make them rubbery. Cook them just until they turn opaque and remove them immediately.
• Neglecting to drain excess liquid – Some shrimp may release water during baking. Drain any excess liquid from your mixture before adding it to the casserole dish to prevent a soggy casserole.
• Skipping the breadcrumb topping – The crispy topping adds texture and flavor. Make sure to use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
• Using low-quality cheese – Not all cheeses melt well. Choose good quality mozzarella and cheddar for the best creamy results in your Shrimp Casserole.
• Not letting it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to rest for 15 minutes helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are thawed and drained properly before cooking.

How long does it take to prepare this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

The total time is about 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize the ingredients in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or substitute different types of cheese based on your preference.

What is the best way to serve this Shrimp Casserole?

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it excellent for gatherings or potlucks.

How do I know when my Shrimp Casserole is done?

The casserole should reach an internal temperature of 145°F when fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole is not only creamy and cheesy but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re preparing a festive meal or a simple weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients for an added twist!