Shrimp Casserole Recipe
This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together tender shrimp in a creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this casserole stands out as a favorite among seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This Shrimp Casserole takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Old Bay seasoning and creamy mayonnaise creates a deeply satisfying taste that will please any palate.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or add it to your holiday spread; it fits perfectly into any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 8 servings, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- Easy Cleanup: The one-dish preparation means less time washing up after enjoying a delicious meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this Shrimp Casserole, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Casserole dish: Essential for baking the casserole evenly and holding all the ingredients together.
- Large pot: Needed to cook the shrimp quickly while ensuring they maintain their tender texture.
- Mixing bowl: Helps combine the ingredients without any mess, allowing for easy mixing of flavors.
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). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Old Bay seasoning.
1. Once boiling, add the shrimp.
2. Cook until they turn opaque, about 30 seconds.
3. Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a bowl.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In the bowl with shrimp, add:
– Mayonnaise
– Garlic powder
– Ground black pepper
Stir well to coat all shrimp evenly. Then add:
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Shredded cheddar cheese
Mix again until everything is combined. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. In a separate bowl:
1. Combine melted butter with panko bread crumbs.
2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp mixture in the casserole dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches 145°F.
– For an extra crispy topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
Allow it to rest for about 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Serving your Shrimp Casserole can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.
For a Cozy Family Dinner
- Serve with Rice: A side of steamed white or brown rice absorbs the creamy sauce, adding texture.
- Pair with Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole and adds a nice crunch.
As a Festive Dish
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh touch and vibrant color.
- Add Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add a zesty twist to their portion.
For a Casual Gathering
- Offer Mixed Greens Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the casserole.
- Include Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw complement the dish well.
How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Perfecting your Shrimp Casserole ensures each bite is delicious and satisfying. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp yields better flavor and texture than frozen ones, but if using frozen, ensure they are properly thawed.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Experiment with Cheese Variations: Try using different cheese blends like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to add extra spices or herbs based on your preference for more depth of flavor.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for 15 minutes helps set the layers and makes serving easier.
- Use a Deeper Dish if Needed: If doubling the recipe, use a larger or deeper casserole dish to prevent overflow.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Pairing sides with your Shrimp Casserole can enhance its appeal and create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-packed vegetable adds color and complements the rich flavors of shrimp casserole.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair wonderfully with seafood dishes.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful contrast in flavor and is easy to prepare alongside the casserole.
- Roasted Asparagus: This elegant side dish brings a hint of sophistication while balancing out the richness of the casserole.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with dressing and croutons offers a crunchy counterpart to the creamy casserole.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A healthy grain option that adds texture and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with savory shrimp, creating an interesting flavor combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people find making a shrimp casserole recipe easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture. Cook only until opaque.
- Not seasoning properly: A bland casserole can ruin the dish. Use Old Bay seasoning generously for flavor.
- Using the wrong cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick with mozzarella and cheddar for the best texture.
- Skipping the rest period: Serving immediately after baking can result in runny casserole. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Neglecting breadcrumb topping: A missing crispy layer makes the dish less appealing. Don’t skip the panko topping for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best taste.
Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about this shrimp casserole recipe? Here are some common questions with answers!
Can I use frozen shrimp in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
Yes, just thaw them first before cooking.
What sides pair well with Shrimp Casserole?
Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How spicy is the Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
The Old Bay seasoning adds flavor without much heat. Adjust spices as desired.
Can I customize this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This shrimp casserole recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it today, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe, a perfect combination of tender shrimp enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, but it also boasts rich flavors that seafood lovers will adore. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this casserole serves up to 8 people, making it a crowd-pleaser. With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy your delicious meal without the hassle. Elevate your dining experience by pairing it with rice or a refreshing salad!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21–24 count), peeled and deveined
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 2½ quart casserole dish with butter.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, add Old Bay seasoning and shrimp. Cook until opaque (about 30 seconds). Drain and transfer to a bowl.
- Mix mayonnaise, garlic powder, black pepper, mozzarella, and cheddar into the bowl with shrimp until well combined. Pour into the casserole dish.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan; mix with panko bread crumbs. Sprinkle over the shrimp mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches 145°F. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
