Shrimp Casserole Recipe
This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful blend of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish stands out for its rich flavors and simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have an impressive meal ready in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of shrimp and cheese in a creamy sauce will please both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, and feel free to customize the cheese blend to suit your taste.
- One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes in one casserole dish, which means less cleanup for you!
- Impressive Presentation: The golden brown breadcrumb topping makes this dish look as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will streamline your cooking experience and help you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Casserole dish: This holds everything together while baking and provides an attractive serving option.
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling the shrimp quickly; it ensures even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
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 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). While it’s heating up, grease your 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with some butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add Old Bay seasoning for flavor.
- Carefully add shrimp and cook until opaque, about 30 seconds.
- Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
- In the bowl with shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir well to coat all the shrimp evenly.
- Incorporate mozzarella and cheddar cheeses into the mixture. Stir again until combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in panko bread crumbs until they are well coated with butter.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Transfer shrimp mixture into your greased casserole dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the buttered panko bread crumbs over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes if you desire a browned top.
- Let rest for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casserole!
How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Serving your Shrimp Casserole can enhance the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish for your family and friends.
With a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad – A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
- Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad provide a great contrast to the shrimp.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread – Crisp and buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy casserole.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls can be served warm, adding a comforting touch to the meal.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkling fresh parsley adds color and freshness to each serving.
- Green Onions – Sliced green onions can give a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
Served with Rice or Quinoa
- Steamed Rice – Plain rice absorbs the flavors of the casserole well.
- Quinoa – A healthy alternative, quinoa adds protein and texture.
How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe
To ensure your Shrimp Casserole comes out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
- Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh shrimp enhances flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Cook shrimp just until opaque for best texture. They will continue cooking in the oven.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste your mixture before baking. You might want more seasoning based on your preference.
- Broil for Crispiness – Broiling at the end gives you that desired crispy topping. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
- Let It Rest – Allowing it to rest for 15 minutes after baking helps set up the casserole for easier serving.
- Experiment with Cheeses – Feel free to mix different cheeses for varied flavors; gouda or pepper jack can add an exciting twist.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Pairing your Shrimp Casserole with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options.
- Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli, carrots, or asparagus maintain their nutrients and offer a healthy balance.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that pairs well with creamy casseroles.
- Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can easily soak up sauce from your casserole.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings a pop of flavor that complements seafood beautifully.
- Rice Pilaf – Flavorful rice pilaf with herbs makes a great base alongside your shrimp dish.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out savory flavors in your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a delicious Shrimp Casserole Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using frozen shrimp without thawing: Always thaw shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking and better texture.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Cook shrimp just until opaque; overcooking makes them rubbery. Aim for about 30 seconds in boiling water.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget the Old Bay seasoning! It adds essential flavor to the dish.
- Not greasing the casserole dish: Greasing helps prevent sticking. Use butter or cooking spray generously on your dish.
- Ignoring resting time: Letting the casserole rest for 15 minutes allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Shrimp Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about this Shrimp Casserole Recipe:
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap mozzarella and cheddar with your favorite cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.
How spicy is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
The spice level mainly depends on the Old Bay seasoning used. You can adjust it by adding more or less.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What side dishes pair well with Shrimp Casserole?
Serve with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different seasonings based on your preferences. It’s a comforting dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try!
Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delectable dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy sauce and a crispy topping, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or need a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers rich flavors and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can impress your family and friends with this satisfying meal that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2.5-quart casserole dish.
- Boil salted water in a large pot and add Old Bay seasoning. Cook shrimp until opaque (about 30 seconds). Drain and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- In the bowl, mix shrimp with mayonnaise, garlic powder, black pepper, mozzarella, and cheddar until well combined.
- Melt butter and toss with panko bread crumbs until coated.
- Pour the shrimp mixture into the casserole dish, top with buttered breadcrumbs, and bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches 145°F. Broil for an additional minute for extra crispiness. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 260mg
