Shrimp casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the natural sweetness of fresh shrimp with a creamy, cheesy blend, making each bite a treat for your taste buds. Layered to perfection, this casserole is not only mouthwatering but also visually appealing with its golden breadcrumb topping and bubbling cheese. It’s a wonderful option for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or a warming meal on a chilly night.

When you dive into this shrimp casserole, the flavors come alive. The combination of Old Bay seasoning adds a hint of spice that beautifully complements the richness of the cheeses. This article will guide you through the easy steps of making this dish, from gathering your fresh ingredients to enjoying those satisfying flavors right out of the oven. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Featuring succulent shrimp and creamy cheeses, this recipe showcases fresh flavors.
Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make this dish quick to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
Nutrition: Packed with protein and essential nutrients from shrimp and cheese, it’s a healthy choice.
Versatility: Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or potlucks—this dish fits any occasion!
Presentation: The golden, crunchy topping and cheesy goodness make a stunning centerpiece on your table.

With all these reasons, you won’t be able to resist trying it!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30-35 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with butter.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the Old Bay seasoning.
Once boiling, add the shrimp and cook until opaque, about 30 seconds. Drain and transfer to a bowl.
Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and pepper to the shrimp, stirring to coat fully. Mix in the cheeses until well combined.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
Melt butter and mix in panko bread crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the shrimp.
Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches 145°F. Broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the crumbs.
Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve directly from the casserole dish for a rustic look.
Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread to complete your meal.
Portions: Divide into generous portions for everyone to enjoy.
Beverage Pairing: A crisp white wine or sparkling water complements the flavors beautifully.

Get ready for a delicious experience!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch.
Customization: Feel free to swap shrimp for crab or scallops for a different seafood delight.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Shrimp Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture for a kick.
Herb-Infused Casserole: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist.
Creamy Spinach Variation: Fold in fresh spinach leaves for added color and nutrition, giving your casserole an extra boost.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Special Equipment

Casserole dish
Large pot
Mixing bowl
Colander
Baking sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions? Check chicken, cheese variants, or gluten-free breadcrumbs to suit your needs.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Can I customize the flavors? For sure! Feel free to add your favorite spices or ingredients to make it your own.
Are there alternative cooking methods? Yes! You can cook this dish on the stovetop or grill it in a cast-iron skillet for a unique flavor.

Conclusion

This shrimp casserole is a fantastic dish, full of flavor and easy to prepare. Packed with healthy ingredients and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special gatherings. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and delight in the delicious results!