Family-Loved Shrimp Casserole Recipe Ideas for Dinner Joy

Comfort meets coastal cuisine in this irresistible shrimp casserole that delivers a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Seafood enthusiasts will adore how each bite brings a delightful maritime essence to the dinner table.

Creamy, rich, and packed with succulent shrimp, this dish promises to become a household favorite.

The recipe combines classic ingredients with a touch of southern charm, creating a memorable meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

Layers of tender shrimp nestled among creamy sauce and crisp breadcrumbs make this casserole a true crowd-pleaser.

Every forkful promises a delectable journey through fresh, harmonious ingredients that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to be transported to a seaside kitchen with this mouthwatering culinary creation.

Why Shrimp Casserole Is So Comforting

• Packed with cheesy goodness, seasoned shrimp, and crunchy breadcrumb topping, this dish guarantees smiles around the dinner table.
• From preparation to serving, this recipe offers a speedy solution for hungry families craving a satisfying seafood meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Suitable for casual family dinners, potlucks, or when you want to impress guests with a seemingly sophisticated yet simple seafood dish.

Shrimp Casserole Ingredient List

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the star protein of this delightful casserole.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy condiment that helps bind and add richness to the shrimp mixture.
• Panko Bread Crumbs: Crispy topping that provides a crunchy texture to the casserole.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheeses that add gooey, flavorful layers to the dish.

• Salt, Old Bay Seasoning: Ingredients that boost the overall seafood flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder, Black Pepper: Spices that provide depth and warmth to the shrimp mixture.
• Butter: Versatile ingredient used for greasing the dish and creating a glossy breadcrumb topping.

How to Make Shrimp Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a sizzling 375F (190C).

Grab a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish and generously coat it with butter to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Boil The Seafood

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.

Toss in salt and Old Bay Seasoning for extra flavor.

Drop the shrimp into the water and cook for just 30 seconds until they turn opaque.

Step 3: Cool The Seafood

Drain the shrimp using a strainer and transfer to a mixing bowl.

Allow them to cool down.

Use a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture to keep the texture perfect.

Step 4: Create A Creamy Blend

• Mayonnaise
• Garlic powder
• Ground black pepper

Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece gets coated evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Goodness

• Mozzarella cheese
• Cheddar cheese

Ensure the cheese is distributed throughout the shrimp mixture for maximum flavor.

Step 6: Layer The Casserole

Spread the cheesy shrimp mixture into the prepared dish, creating an even layer that promises deliciousness in every bite.

Step 7: Craft The Crunchy Topping

Melt butter and combine with panko bread crumbs until they’re lightly coated and glossy.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Sprinkle the buttery bread crumbs over the shrimp mixture.

Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes, aiming for an internal temperature of 145F (63C).

Step 9: Crisp The Topping

Activate the broiler for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy bread crumb topping.

Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 10: Allow Flavor Melding

Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes after baking.

This brief pause allows flavors to settle and integrate beautifully.

Pro Tips for Shrimp Casserole Prep

• Drain excess water from cooked shrimp using a paper towel to maintain the perfect texture and avoid a watery casserole.
• Use Old Bay Seasoning in the boiling water to infuse the shrimp with extra zesty taste before mixing with other ingredients.
• Mix shredded mozzarella and cheddar thoroughly to ensure every bite has melty, cheesy goodness.
• Monitor the breadcrumb topping during the final 1-2 minutes to achieve golden crispiness without burning.
• Use a food thermometer to confirm the casserole reaches 145F (63C) for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat shrimp.

Best Way to Store Shrimp Casserole

• Store leftover shrimp casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from seeping in, keeping the dish fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap the casserole securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing for longer to maintain optimal taste and texture.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350F (175C) for 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and ensure even heating. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the breadcrumb topping.
• For a faster option, reheat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots.

Shrimp Casserole Pairings That Work

• Pair Zesty Citrus White Wine: Crisp sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio cuts through the rich, creamy shrimp casserole, refreshing your palate with bright, tangy notes.
• Complement Herb-Infused Salad: Prepare a light mixed green salad with fresh dill, parsley, and a lemon vinaigrette to balance the casserole's decadent texture and add vibrant freshness.
• Match Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve warm, rustic sourdough or French baguette slices to soak up the cheesy sauce and provide delightful textural contrast with the crunchy breadcrumb topping.
• Enhance with Chilled Cucumber Slaw: Create a cool, crunchy slaw with thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a light mayo-based dressing to offer a crisp counterpoint to the warm, rich casserole.

Fun Takes on Shrimp Casserole

• Keto-Friendly Shrimp Casserole: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb version. Swap regular mayonnaise for full-fat, sugar-free mayonnaise to maintain ketogenic macros.
• Gluten-Free Seafood Bake: Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of traditional breadcrumbs. Ensure all seasonings and ingredients are certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.
• Dairy-Free Ocean Casserole: Substitute mozzarella and cheddar with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based friendly preparation that maintains rich flavor profiles.
• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Casserole: Add cayenne pepper, paprika, and extra Old Bay seasoning to create a zestier version. Include diced bell peppers and onions for additional southwestern-inspired flavor complexity.

FAQs

• What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Opt for medium to large-sized raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp both work great, but ensure they’re high-quality and not rubbery.

• Can I substitute the cheese types?

Yes, you can use similar melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or provolone instead of mozzarella and cheddar. Just keep the total cheese quantity the same for best results.

• Is Old Bay Seasoning necessary?

While Old Bay adds a classic seafood flavor, you can substitute with a mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper if you don’t have it on hand. The goal is to enhance the shrimp’s natural taste.

• How do I know the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and form a gentle C-shape. The 30-second boil in this recipe ensures they’re just cooked through without becoming tough or rubbery.

Shrimp Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy Louisiana shrimp casserole brings coastal comfort straight to dinner tables with irresistible Southern charm. Cheesy, hearty layers combine perfectly seasoned seafood and rich ingredients that guarantee a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (907 grams) large shrimp, 21-24 count, peeled and deveined
• 4 ounces (113 grams) shredded mozzarella
• 4 ounces (113 grams) shredded medium cheddar cheese

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon salt for the cooking water
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise

Topping and Preparation Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Generously butter a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Bring a large pot of water to rolling boil. Add salt and Old Bay Seasoning for enhanced flavor profile. Quickly cook shrimp for 30 seconds until they turn opaque.
3. Drain shrimp using a strainer and transfer to a mixing bowl. Allow to cool slightly, removing any excess moisture with paper towels to maintain optimal texture.
4. Combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper with cooled shrimp. Mix thoroughly to ensure even coating and consistent seasoning throughout.
5. Incorporate shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese into the shrimp mixture. Distribute evenly to guarantee cheesy coverage in every bite.
6. Transfer the shrimp and cheese blend into the prepared casserole dish. Smooth the surface to create an even layer for consistent cooking.
7. Melt butter and combine with panko bread crumbs until they become lightly coated and glossy. This will create a crispy, golden topping.
8. Scatter buttered bread crumbs completely over the shrimp mixture. Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes, targeting an internal temperature of 145F (63C).
9. Activate broiler for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden-brown, crispy top. Monitor closely to prevent burning and ensure perfect coloration.
10. Remove from oven and allow casserole to rest for 15 minutes. This resting period helps flavors meld and provides a more cohesive dish for serving.

Notes

• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the most succulent and flavorful casserole.
• Reduce mayonnaise and use Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier version of the dish.
• Add chopped herbs like parsley or dill to brighten the overall taste and add freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 395
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 1058 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 201 mg