Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is the perfect dish to elevate any dinner gathering into a memorable event. This delightful casserole combines tender shrimp with a savory breadcrumb filling, topped with a golden crust that provides an irresistible crunch. Not only is it a luxurious meal, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it suitable for special occasions or weeknight dinners. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting friends, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or as part of a buffet spread at your next gathering.
- Healthier Comfort Food: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, it’s comfort food without the guilt.
- Impressive Presentation: The baked shrimp casserole looks stunning when served hot from the oven, making it visually appealing.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and provides ample space for all the ingredients.
- Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your breadcrumb mixture without making a mess.
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables like garlic and green onions to enhance their flavors before adding them to the casserole.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly from start to finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Make the Breadcrumb Mixture
In another bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the breadcrumb mixture evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange the seasoned shrimp on top of this layer. Then sprinkle the remaining breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Once done baking, remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an added zesty flavor. Enjoy your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole!
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is versatile and can be plated in a variety of ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate this delicious dish.
With Fresh Lemon Wedges
- Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty brightness that complements the shrimp perfectly. Squeeze some over the casserole just before serving for an extra kick.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the casserole, making it even more appetizing.
Paired with a Salad
- Serving this casserole alongside a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette, balances out the richness of the dish and adds freshness.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread makes for a delightful accompaniment, allowing you to scoop up every last bite of the casserole while adding crunch and flavor.
On a Bed of Rice or Quinoa
- Placing your baked stuffed shrimp casserole on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa can provide additional texture and soak up any delicious juices from the dish.
How to Perfect Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
To ensure your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Choose Quality Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can be used but should be thoroughly thawed before cooking.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the stuffing ingredients, mix gently to keep the breadcrumbs light and airy. This will result in a fluffier topping.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preferences for enhanced flavor.
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Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. It should be golden brown on top; if it browns too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole can complete your meal beautifully. Here are some fantastic options:
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the flavors of the casserole wonderfully.
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and fresh taste that contrasts nicely with the rich casserole.
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Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine lettuce and tangy Caesar dressing offer a refreshing balance to this hearty dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness and pairs well with shrimp.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the casserole, making it an excellent side choice.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is always a hit at family gatherings and offers a delightful sweet contrast to savory shrimp.
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Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for an excellent bed for serving your casserole while absorbing its flavorful juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:
- Using frozen shrimp: Always opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Frozen shrimp can water down your dish, affecting texture and flavor.
- Not seasoning adequately: Be generous with salt and pepper. Underseasoning can lead to a bland casserole, so taste as you go!
- Skipping the breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add essential texture. If you skip them or use too few, your casserole will lack the desired crunch.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Keep an eye on cooking times. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so remove it from heat as soon as it’s opaque.
- Neglecting prep work: Properly chop and measure ingredients before starting. This organization will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Best used within 1-2 months for best quality.
Reheating Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish featuring tender shrimp baked with seasoned breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Yes! You can add different vegetables or substitute seafood based on your preference. Feel free to experiment!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole should be bubbly and golden brown on top. The shrimp should be opaque and cooked through.
Is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This dish brings a touch of elegance to any meal, making it perfect for celebrations or holidays.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish delivers satisfaction every time. Plus, feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist!
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful culinary experience that transforms tender shrimp into a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish. This casserole features large shrimp enveloped in a savory breadcrumb mixture infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese, all topped with a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for any gathering, this dish impresses with its restaurant-quality flavor while being simple enough for weeknight dinners. Serve it hot from the oven alongside fresh lemon wedges and garnished with parsley to elevate your dining experience. Whether celebrating special occasions or enjoying cozy family meals, this casserole makes every moment memorable.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper; set aside.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the breadcrumb mixture in a baking dish; arrange shrimp on top and sprinkle remaining mixture over them.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven, cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 267
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
