Quick & Creamy Shrimp Casserole Recipe: A Dinnertime Delight

Creamy shrimp casserole promises a delightful comfort meal that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.

Seafood enthusiasts adore this quick and satisfying dish packed with rich flavors.

Succulent shrimp nestled in a velvety sauce creates pure culinary magic.

Warm and inviting, the casserole brings Mediterranean coastal vibes straight to your dinner table.

Layers of cheese and herbs mingle with plump, tender shrimp for an irresistible combination.

Fresh ingredients and simple techniques make this recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

You’ll fall in love with every single bite of this mouthwatering seafood sensation.

Everything Inside Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides the primary protein and flavor for the casserole.

• Salt, Old Bay Seasoning: Classic seafood seasonings that add depth and traditional coastal taste.
• Garlic Powder, Black Pepper: Aromatic spices that complement the shrimp's natural sweetness.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy ingredient that helps bind the shrimp and adds rich texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese, Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheeses that provide gooey richness and additional flavor.

• Panko Breadcrumbs, Butter: Crispy topping that adds a golden, crunchy texture to the casserole.

How To Cook Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 375°F, getting ready for a delicious seafood adventure.

Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Vessel

Generously coat a casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.

Step 3: Boil and Season the Water

Fill a large pot with water and add salt and Old Bay Seasoning to create a flavorful bath for the shrimp.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Quickly plunge the shrimp into the boiling water, cooking for just 30 seconds until they turn opaque and are perfectly done.

Step 5: Cool and Drain the Shrimp

Transfer the shrimp to a large mixing bowl using a strainer, allowing them to cool slightly and drain any excess liquid.

Step 6: Season the Shrimp

• Mayonnaise
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

Ensure every shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning mix.

Step 7: Add Cheesy Goodness

• Mozzarella cheese
• Cheddar cheese

Stir to distribute the cheeses throughout the shrimp mixture.

Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the shrimp and cheese mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.

Step 9: Prepare Crunchy Topping

Melt butter and mix with panko breadcrumbs until they’re perfectly moistened.

Step 10: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the shrimp mixture and bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes.

Step 11: Brown to Perfection

Switch to broil for 1-2 minutes to create a golden, crispy top.

Step 12: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Serve warm or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment.

Smart Tips For Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Quick Shrimp Prep: Briefly cook shrimp to prevent overcooking and maintain tender texture, ensuring they remain juicy and succulent.
• Perfect Cheese Blend: Mix mozzarella and cheddar for a creamy, rich base that melts beautifully and adds depth to the casserole.
• Breadcrumb Browning Trick: Moisten panko with melted butter before sprinkling to achieve a golden, crispy topping that adds delightful crunch.
• Temperature Check: Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm shrimp reaches 145°F, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked seafood.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare casserole in advance and serve warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks and gatherings.

Ways To Tweak Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Keto Seafood Bake: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds, swap mozzarella for full-fat cream cheese, and use cauliflower rice as a base for a low-carb version.
• Mediterranean Shrimp Casserole: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and sprinkle with fresh oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Casserole: Incorporate Cajun seasoning instead of Old Bay, mix in diced bell peppers, and top with pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Seafood Casserole: Use gluten-free panko or almond flour for breadcrumbs, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, and substitute with coconut flour if needed.

What Goes Well With Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Pair Zesty White Wine with Seafood Delight: Crisp sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio complement the shrimp's delicate flavor, cutting through the rich cheesy texture with bright, refreshing notes.
• Serve Crusty Garlic Bread on the Side: Warm, buttery bread provides the perfect accompaniment, helping soak up the creamy sauce and adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
• Create a Fresh Citrus Salad Companion: Light mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette balance the casserole's richness, offering a tangy contrast and adding nutritional balance to the meal.
• Enhance with Chilled Cucumber Slaw: Crisp, cool cucumber slaw with a hint of dill provides a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, cheesy shrimp casserole, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Best Way To Store Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Store leftover shrimp casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for maximum 2 months. Place in freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent rubbery texture.

Shrimp Casserole Recipe Questions Answered

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely, pat dry with paper towels, and drain excess moisture before cooking to prevent a watery casserole.

• What can I substitute for Old Bay Seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay, use a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar flavor profile.

• How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?

Cook shrimp for about 30 seconds until they turn opaque and curl slightly. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery, so watch them carefully during the brief cooking time.

Why Shrimp Casserole Recipe Feels So Special

• Quicken Dinner Prep: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this shrimp casserole a speedy solution for busy households seeking a delicious meal without complex cooking techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with cheesy goodness and tender shrimp, this casserole delivers a crowd-winning combination that appeals to both kids and adults, perfect for family gatherings or potluck events.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish warm straight from the oven or serve at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for picnics, potlucks, or casual get-togethers where flexibility matters.
• Customizable Flavor Profile: Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting seasonings like Old Bay or experimenting with different cheese blends to match your taste preferences and create a personalized seafood experience.

Shrimp Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 26-27 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy Louisiana shrimp casserole brings coastal comfort straight to dinner tables with rich, cheesy goodness. Southern charm meets seafood magic in this irresistible one-pan meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 2 lbs large shrimp (21–24 count, peeled and deveined)

Cheeses:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 ounces (113 grams) shredded medium cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F, positioning rack in the center for even cooking.
2. Generously coat a 2 1/2-quart baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
3. Fill a large pot with water, adding salt and Old Bay Seasoning for flavor enhancement.
4. Quickly poach shrimp in boiling water for approximately 30 seconds until they turn opaque and fully cooked.
5. Carefully strain shrimp and transfer to a spacious mixing bowl, allowing brief cooling time.
6. Gently pat shrimp dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
7. Incorporate mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper, thoroughly coating shrimp with seasoning.
8. Fold in mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
9. Smoothly spread seasoned shrimp mixture into prepared baking dish, creating an uniform layer.
10. Melt butter in a separate bowl and thoroughly combine with panko breadcrumbs until completely moistened.
11. Evenly distribute seasoned breadcrumbs across the shrimp surface for consistent crunch.
12. Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes, verifying internal temperature reaches 145°F using an instant-read thermometer.
13. Activate broiler for 1-2 minutes to achieve golden-brown breadcrumb topping.
14. Allow casserole to rest for 15 minutes, enabling flavors to settle and making it ideal for serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Adjust seasoning levels by tasting the shrimp mixture before baking to ensure perfect flavor balance.
• Pat shrimp completely dry before mixing to prevent watery casserole texture and enhance cheese melting.
• Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version of this comforting seafood dish.
• Swap out mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate lactose-intolerant dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 16-17 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 409 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 849 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 182 mg