Shrimp Casserole: Amazing 10-Min Prep Comfort

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Shrimp Casserole has become my go-to for those nights when I need something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made this easy shrimp casserole; the aroma of garlic and cheesy goodness filled my kitchen, and my family practically inhaled it! It’s that perfect blend of tender shrimp, a rich, creamy sauce, and a delightful crunchy topping that truly makes it a winner. This dish is so satisfying and has quickly earned a permanent spot in my rotation for a hearty shrimp casserole for dinner. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Casserole

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. You’ll adore the rich, creamy shrimp casserole flavor that just melts in your mouth, thanks to the blend of cheeses and tender shrimp.

• Amazing Taste: A delightful mix of succulent shrimp, savory seasonings, and a golden, crunchy topping.
• Quick Prep: Ready to bake in just 10 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious meal faster.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will devour this comforting dish.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable shrimp.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a delightful side dish.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate cozy meal for any occasion.
• Satisfyingly Creamy: The luscious sauce makes this creamy shrimp casserole irresistible.

Shrimp Casserole Ingredient List

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating this incredible cheesy shrimp casserole. You’ll be amazed at how easily these come together for such a flavorful dish!

• 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined – Make sure they’re prepped and ready to go!
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water – Old Bay is key for that signature seafood flavor.
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise – This is what makes the casserole so wonderfully creamy and binds everything together.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For that savory punch that complements the shrimp.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – Just a touch to enhance the other flavors.
• 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan – For sautéing the breadcrumbs and ensuring a non-stick dish.
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs – These give you that perfect, crispy topping that everyone loves.
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese – For that gooey, melty cheesy goodness.
• 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese – Adds another layer of delicious cheese flavor to our baked shrimp casserole.

How to Make Shrimp Casserole

Crafting this delicious baked shrimp casserole is a breeze, and I’ll walk you through every step. Get ready for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a moment to grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with a bit of butter. This simple step helps prevent sticking and ensures your shrimp casserole slides right out.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Stir in the 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, then carefully add the shrimp. Cook them just until they turn opaque, which should only take about 30 seconds. You don’t want to overcook them! Drain the shrimp immediately using a colander and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
3. Step 3: To the cooked shrimp, add the 2/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Stir everything gently until all the shrimp are evenly coated. Next, fold in the 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese and 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheeses are well distributed throughout the shrimp mixture.
4. Step 4: Transfer this delightful shrimp and cheese mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Now, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a small pan. Add the 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs to the melted butter and stir until they are nicely coated and slightly toasted. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the top of the shrimp mixture in the casserole dish. This topping is key for that perfect crunch on our baked shrimp casserole.
5. Step 5: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes, or until the center of the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Let this amazing shrimp casserole rest for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious. Enjoy your homemade baked shrimp casserole!

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Casserole

Elevate your dish with these simple tricks for the ultimate shrimp casserole experience. These tips ensure a perfect outcome every time!

• Use fresh, high-quality shrimp: While frozen works, fresh shrimp offer superior texture and flavor for your shrimp casserole.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook very quickly, so just a minute or two is all they need before baking. Overcooking makes them tough.
• Toast the breadcrumbs: Buttering and toasting the panko breadcrumbs before adding them creates a delightful crunch that holds up.
• Allow resting time: Letting the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

What’s the secret to perfect shrimp casserole?

The magic lies in the balance of creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and that irresistible crispy topping. Using good quality mayonnaise and toasting the panko breadcrumbs are key for the best shrimp casserole texture and flavor. For more on food preparation tips, you can check out our about me page.

Can I make shrimp casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this shrimp casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with shrimp casserole?

A common pitfall is overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. Be sure to cook them just until they turn pink. Also, ensure your breadcrumb topping is evenly distributed to avoid dry spots. For more information on avoiding cooking mistakes, consult our contact page.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Casserole

This incredible shrimp casserole is so versatile, it works beautifully as a main course or a substantial side dish. When serving it as a main, I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed asparagus to balance the rich flavors. It also makes a fantastic shrimp casserole side dish alongside grilled steak or chicken for a more elaborate meal. For a truly comforting experience, consider serving it with fluffy white rice or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious, creamy sauce. You can find more serving suggestions on our homepage.

Nutrition Facts for Shrimp Casserole

This shrimp casserole is a satisfying meal, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 335
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Protein: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use for your shrimp casserole. For more details on data usage, please review our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Casserole

Got leftovers of this amazing shrimp casserole? Lucky you! Properly storing and reheating ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish again. Once your shrimp casserole for dinner has cooled down completely, which usually takes about an hour, portion any leftovers into airtight containers. For refrigeration, store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. For information on affiliate disclosures, see this disclaimer.

When you’re ready to reheat, a thawed casserole can be gently reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, it will take longer, around 25-30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be sure to do so at a lower power setting to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Enjoy your delicious shrimp casserole again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Casserole

What’s the best way to prepare shrimp for this casserole?

For the absolute best texture in your shrimp casserole, it’s important to use fresh, large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before adding them to the mix. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t release excess water, which could make your casserole soupy. For terms of use regarding recipes, please refer to our terms of use.

Can I add other vegetables to this shrimp casserole?

Absolutely! While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can certainly add vegetables to enhance it. Finely chopped bell peppers, celery, or even some frozen peas are great additions. Just sauté them briefly before adding them to the shrimp mixture, and they’ll add extra flavor and nutrients to your shrimp casserole.

How do I make shrimp casserole without pasta or rice?

This particular shrimp casserole recipe is designed to be served on its own, without pasta or rice. The creamy sauce and cheesy, crunchy topping provide a complete and satisfying flavor profile. If you prefer, you can serve it as a shrimp casserole side dish with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

How to make shrimp casserole taste even richer?

To boost the richness of your shrimp casserole, consider adding a splash of heavy cream along with the mayonnaise, or even a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a little tang. Some people also like to add a bit of Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb topping for an extra cheesy flavor. Experimenting is part of the fun when you learn how to make shrimp casserole!

Variations of Shrimp Casserole You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered this classic shrimp casserole, you’ll love exploring different twists! It’s so adaptable, you can easily tailor it to your preferences. For a heartier meal, consider a delicious shrimp and noodle casserole by adding cooked egg noodles to the mix before baking. If you prefer a different base, a flavorful shrimp casserole with rice is fantastic; simply stir in cooked rice along with the shrimp and cheese mixture.

Craving a lighter option? Try a low-carb version by swapping the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or slivered almonds, and perhaps adding some extra veggies like broccoli florets. For a spicy kick, amp up the Old Bay or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mix. These variations ensure your love for shrimp casserole never fades!

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