Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together succulent shrimp with creamy flavors, making it ideal for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. With its quick preparation time and simple ingredients, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your household. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds an irresistible crunch, perfectly complementing the tender shrimp underneath.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 5 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Old Bay seasoning, garlic, and cheese creates a rich flavor profile that will satisfy any seafood lover.
• Versatile Dish: Great for family dinners or special occasions, this shrimp casserole can be served as a main course or a side dish.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe yields 8 servings, making it perfect for entertaining guests or meal prepping for the week.
• Easy Cleanup: One casserole dish means less time spent washing up after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this Shrimp Casserole Recipe, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish
• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: This is essential for baking the shrimp and ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Large pot: Used for boiling the shrimp quickly before mixing with other ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all your flavorful ingredients without spilling over.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Shrimp Casserole, you will need:

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 warming up, 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 in the Old Bay seasoning. Once boiling, add the shrimp and cook until they turn opaque, which should take about 30 seconds. Drain the shrimp thoroughly and transfer them to a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In the bowl with shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients coat the shrimp evenly. Then add both cheeses and mix again until combined. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish.

Step 4: Prepare Topping

Melt butter in a small bowl or saucepan. Stir in panko bread crumbs until they’re fully coated with butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp mixture in your casserole dish.

Step 5: Bake

Place the casserole in the oven uncovered. Bake for approximately 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If desired, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden brown topping. Once done, allow it to rest for about 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casserole!

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Shrimp casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to pair with this creamy and flavorful meal.

Serve with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and crunch to balance the rich casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the shrimp’s flavors beautifully.

Accompany with Breads

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls can be used to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Pair with Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed White Rice: A simple side that absorbs the flavors of the casserole well.
• Quinoa: This nutritious grain adds a nutty flavor and texture that pairs nicely with shrimp.

Add Some Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients alongside your meal.

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How to Perfect Shrimp Casserole Recipe

To ensure your shrimp casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances the flavor significantly compared to frozen varieties.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook just until opaque; overcooking can make shrimp rubbery.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before baking; you can add more Old Bay seasoning or salt if needed.
• Broil for Crunchiness: Broiling at the end gives a nice brown color to the breadcrumb topping.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 15 minutes before serving helps it set nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Casserole Recipe

When serving shrimp casserole, consider these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast that balances the creaminess of the casserole.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes, adding sweetness and crunch.
3. Baked Potatoes: A fluffy baked potato provides a hearty addition while absorbing flavors from the casserole.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a healthy touch and vibrant color to your plate.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach complements the seafood while providing extra nutrients.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad offers a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with hot casseroles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Shrimp Casserole Recipe, some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to make sure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long makes them rubbery. Only cook until they turn opaque, about 30 seconds.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland flavors. Use Old Bay seasoning and adjust according to your taste.
• Not greasing the pan: Not greasing your casserole dish may cause sticking. Always use butter or cooking spray to prevent this issue.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality mayonnaise or cheese can affect texture and flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality products for the best outcome.
• Ignoring cooking times: Undercooking or overcooking can ruin your casserole. Keep an eye on the timer and check the temperature of the center.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It will keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Shrimp Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries related to our Shrimp Casserole Recipe.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

What type of cheese works best in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

A mix of mozzarella and cheddar provides a great flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses too!

How do I make this dish spicy?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mixture for an added kick.

Is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or different spices according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!