If you are craving a dish that brings together the perfect harmony of rich flavor and creamy texture, then this Creamy Cheesy Shrimp Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious blend of mayonnaise and melted cheeses, all topped with a crispy, buttery breadcrumb crust that adds just the right crunch. This casserole is comfort food elevated, combining the freshness of the sea with the indulgence of cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to seafood dish that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the exciting flavors of this casserole; the ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role. They balance textures and boost flavors to bring you that signature creamy, cheesy, and slightly crunchy bite with every spoonful.
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count): Peeled and deveined shrimp provide the star of the dish with their tender and juicy texture.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning: A classic seafood spice blend that delivers a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon salt (for cooking water): Ensures the shrimp cook perfectly seasoned and flavorful.
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps bind all the ingredients together in the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a gentle, aromatic background note that complements the shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a slight kick and balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon butter (plus more to grease the pan): Enhances the savory flavor and creates a crisp topping when combined with bread crumbs.
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: These light and airy crumbs provide the golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly to offer gooey, stringy cheese goodness.
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and richness that deepen the casserole’s flavor.
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing your casserole dish with butter not only prevents sticking but also adds a subtle nutty flavor as it bakes. Preparing your dish now means you’re all set once your shrimp mixture is ready.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the Old Bay seasoning for that unmistakable seafood flavor. Drop your shrimp in and wait just until they turn opaque—this usually takes only about 30 seconds. Shrimp cook fast, and overcooking would make them tough, so keep an eye on them. Drain them carefully and transfer to a bowl to cool slightly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
It’s time to make the magic happen by adding mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper to your cooked shrimp, then stirring everything together until the shrimp are well coated. Afterward, fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses—this combo promises a melty, dreamy texture that every cheesy shrimp casserole needs.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy shrimp and cheese mixture into your butter-greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly for consistent cooking. The even layer ensures that every bite has the perfect ratio of shrimp to cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Make the Topping and Bake
Melt the tablespoon of butter on the stove and stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are evenly coated with butter. This step is essential for achieving that irresistible golden crust. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over your shrimp mixture, then bake the casserole uncovered for 13 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. To finish, turn on the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes to brown the top, creating an eye-catching and crispy layer. Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before serving to let those flavors settle perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or chives make wonderful garnishes for this casserole, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness. A few lemon wedges on the side also brighten up the flavors and offer a zesty counterpoint to the creamy cheese.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads to balance its richness. Consider a vibrant arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and garlic. Simple steamed rice or crusty bread can also help soak up every last bit of the cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for a cozy, personalized touch. You could even layer it over cooked pasta or mashed potatoes for an elevated presentation that transforms this easy recipe into a true dinner party centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This creamy cheesy shrimp casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers possibly even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. For the best texture, freeze it unbaked in a freezer-safe dish, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. If freezing baked leftovers, wrap tightly and consume within one month for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover casserole gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to keep the cheese melty and the topping crisp. Microwaving is quicker but can make the topping a bit soggy, so use the oven when time allows.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry fully before cooking. This will help maintain the best texture and prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Is mayonnaise necessary in the recipe?
Mayonnaise is key for that creamy texture and moist consistency in the casserole. It also helps bind the shrimp and cheeses together, creating the luscious sauce that defines this dish.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar provide a great balance of meltiness and sharp flavor, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
How spicy is this casserole?
This casserole has a mild spice thanks to the Old Bay seasoning and black pepper, which add warmth without overpowering. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking if you prefer more heat.
What can I serve with the casserole for a full meal?
Pair it with a leafy green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta side to create a balanced and satisfying meal that complements the rich shrimp casserole perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cheesy Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a comforting, flavorful crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, it’s a dish that brings people together at the table with its irresistible taste and satisfying textures. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a favorite staple in your recipe collection!
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Creamy Cheesy Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Shrimp Casserole recipe is a creamy, cheesy seafood dish perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner. Featuring large, tender shrimp seasoned with Old Bay and combined with mayonnaise and cheeses, it’s topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs baked to golden perfection. Ready in just 35 minutes and serving eight, it balances rich flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21–24 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
Mix and Topping
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish generously with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Cook Shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning and 1 tablespoon salt. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling water and cook until they turn opaque, roughly 30 seconds. Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: To the shrimp in the bowl, add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated. Then add shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses and stir until everything is combined well. Transfer the shrimp mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- Make Topping: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small pan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are fully coated with butter. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp and cheese filling in the casserole dish.
- Bake and Broil: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. For a crispy golden-brown top, switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This helps the casserole set and enhances the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp that is thoroughly thawed for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust Old Bay seasoning to taste if you prefer a more or less spicy casserole.
- Ensure the shrimp are not overcooked during boiling to keep them tender.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it firm up for easier slicing and serving.
