Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy sauce and a crispy topping, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The ease of preparation and the rich flavors make it a standout choice for any seafood lover. Whether you are looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, this casserole will not disappoint.

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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 Casserole
• How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Prepare Breadcrumb Topping
• Step 5: Bake and Broil
• How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Family Style
• With Fresh Salad
• Over Rice or Quinoa
• With Crusty Bread
• As a Sandwich Filling
• Topped with Fresh 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 recipe?
• How can I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• What type of cheese works best in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• Is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 5 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of Old Bay seasoning, creamy mayonnaise, and melted cheeses creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish serves 8, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks where everyone will want seconds.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking everything in one casserole dish means less mess in the kitchen!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Shrimp Casserole Recipe, having the right tools will ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish (2 1/2 quart)
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: A sturdy dish helps evenly bake the shrimp casserole while keeping all the ingredients contained.
• Large pot: Boiling shrimp efficiently requires ample space, which is why a large pot is essential for cooking.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Casserole

• 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
• 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) and grease your casserole dish with butter.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add Old Bay seasoning to the boiling water.
• Add shrimp and cook until opaque, about 30 seconds.
• Drain the shrimp using a colander and transfer them to a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• In the bowl with shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until fully coated.
• Add shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Mix well to combine.
• Transfer this mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

Step 4: Prepare Breadcrumb Topping

Melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in panko bread crumbs until they are well-coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp mixture.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. For an extra crispy topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving so that flavors meld together beautifully. Enjoy your delightful Shrimp Casserole!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Serving your Shrimp Casserole can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of the casserole.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light, refreshing salad. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp casserole over fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds texture and helps soak up the creamy sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce and makes for a satisfying addition to the meal.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Use leftovers as a filling for sandwiches. Layer the shrimp mixture between slices of bread for a delicious lunch option.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish individual servings with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This adds a vibrant touch and enhances flavor.

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How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect Shrimp Casserole is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp have better flavor and texture than frozen ones. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your shrimp mixture before baking. You can always add more Old Bay seasoning or salt based on your preference.
• Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook shrimp until just opaque; they will continue cooking in the oven, preventing them from becoming tough.
• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor and richness.
• Layer flavors: Consider adding diced bell peppers or onions for an extra layer of flavor in your casserole.
• Let it rest: Allowing your casserole to rest after baking helps set it, making it easier to serve and enhancing flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Complement your Shrimp Casserole with delightful side dishes that enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some ideas:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrast to the creamy casserole.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a nutritious and colorful side that pairs well without overpowering.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and flavor, balancing out the richness of shrimp casserole.
5. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings freshness while complementing seafood beautifully.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a fun, summery addition that complements seafood dishes well.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide an excellent contrast in texture alongside your creamy casserole.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad serves as a light dessert option that cleanses the palate after this rich main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Shrimp Casserole Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the shrimp properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use Old Bay seasoning in the cooking water for enhanced taste.
• Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp too long makes them rubbery. Cook until just opaque, about 30 seconds, then drain immediately.
• Neglecting the cheese – Forgetting to mix in the cheese can result in a dry casserole. Ensure you stir in both mozzarella and cheddar for creaminess.
• Not resting before serving – Serving immediately can lead to a messy dish. Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes to set properly.
• Using the wrong breadcrumbs – Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the desired crunch. Panko bread crumbs create a crispy topping that’s essential for texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Place on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Shrimp Casserole Recipe.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to your casserole.

How can I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color!

What type of cheese works best in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Mozzarella and cheddar are great choices, but feel free to experiment with others like gouda or pepper jack for different flavors.

Is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and is perfect as a make-ahead meal option.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it uniquely yours!