Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy sauce and a crispy topping. It’s not only quick to prepare but also perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinner gatherings. The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout choice for seafood lovers.

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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
• For the Sauce
• For Topping
• How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Boil the Shrimp
• Step 3: Mix Ingredients
• Step 4: Prepare Topping
• Step 5: Bake
• How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
• Pair with Fresh Salad
• Add Some Bread
• Include a Tangy Element
• Consider Wine Pairing
• 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
• How do I make the Shrimp Casserole Recipe gluten-free?
• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
• What can I serve with Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• How do I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This casserole can be made in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Old Bay seasoning, mayonnaise, and cheese creates a rich, savory flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this casserole as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings; it fits right in at any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With eight servings, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, ensuring you can whip it up anytime.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the Shrimp Casserole Recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Casserole dish (2 1/2 quart)
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the shrimp quickly and efficiently.
• Casserole dish: Ensures even baking and easy serving of your delicious shrimp casserole.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Shrimp Casserole Recipe:

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 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). As it heats up, grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Boil the Shrimp

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Old Bay seasoning. Once boiling, add the shrimp and cook until they turn opaque—this should take about 30 seconds. Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In the bowl with shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir gently to coat all the shrimp evenly. Then add shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the mixture; stir again until combined. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish.

Step 4: Prepare Topping

Melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in panko bread crumbs until well mixed. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the shrimp casserole.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If you like a golden-brown topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end. Allow resting for about 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casserole Recipe! This dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Serving shrimp casserole is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that complement its creamy texture and rich flavors.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of a Caesar salad enhance the richness of the casserole.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls provide a comforting touch to the meal.

Include a Tangy Element

• Pickled Vegetables: The acidity from pickled vegetables balances the richness of the shrimp casserole.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick.

Consider Wine Pairing

• White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements seafood beautifully.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.

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How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

To achieve the best results with your shrimp casserole, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until opaque to maintain tenderness in your casserole.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor.
• Adjust Cheese Types: Mixing different kinds of cheese can create unique flavors; try adding feta or gouda.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for 15 minutes helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

A well-rounded meal can be achieved by pairing your shrimp casserole with suitable side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and crunch.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Flavorful quinoa pilaf enhances nutrition while providing a hearty side.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw gives a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes add a satisfying texture that complements the dish well.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings seasonal flavor and fun presentation.
6. Sauteed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach provides a nutritious green element that balances richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this delicious Shrimp Casserole Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Underseasoning the shrimp: Always season the shrimp properly before cooking. A little Old Bay seasoning can elevate the flavor significantly.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. Be careful not to overcook them in boiling water; they should be just opaque after about 30 seconds.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 15 minutes after baking lets flavors meld and makes serving easier.
• Not greasing the dish: Greasing your casserole dish helps prevent sticking and ensures easy serving. Use butter generously on all sides.
• Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Fresh shrimp will always yield better results. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and drained well.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Shrimp Casserole Recipe will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Freeze in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container or wrap well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Shrimp Casserole Recipe.

How do I make the Shrimp Casserole Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are completely thawed and well-drained before cooking.

What can I serve with Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Feel free to add different cheeses or vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious. Its creamy texture combined with a crispy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients!