Looking for a quick and delicious seafood dish that’s perfect for any occasion? This Easy Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece with a buttery breadcrumb topping that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a special birthday dinner or a cozy family meal, this shrimp casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s simple to make and ready in under 30 minutes! Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and cheesy shrimp with a crunchy, buttery topping.
- Quick and easy—done in less than 30 minutes.
- Perfect for special occasions or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
- Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses or seasonings.
Tools Needed
To make this Easy Shrimp Casserole, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large pot: For boiling the shrimp quickly and evenly.
- Strainer: To drain the shrimp and avoid excess water (a must for keeping the casserole from getting soggy).
- Casserole dish (2-quart): Perfect for baking the shrimp and achieving that golden, bubbly top.
- Mixing bowls: For combining the shrimp with mayo and cheese.
- Pepper grinder: Freshly cracked pepper adds a burst of flavor.
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Easy Shrimp Casserole:
For the Shrimp
- 2 lbs large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (for boiling water)
For the Casserole
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Topping
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your Easy Shrimp Casserole:
- Boil the Shrimp: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tbsp salt and 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning. Add the shrimp and cook for just 30 seconds. Drain immediately and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Prep the Casserole Dish: Generously butter a 2-quart casserole dish (or use a large pie pan or oven-safe skillet).
- Season the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp garlic powder, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir until well coated.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring to avoid clumping.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the shrimp mixture evenly in the buttered casserole dish.
- Make the Topping: Melt 2 tbsp butter and mix with ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the shrimp.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the casserole for about 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp reaches 145°F internally.
- Broil for Crispiness: Broil for 2 minutes to get the topping golden and crisp.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Easy Shrimp Casserole
- Don’t overcook the shrimp during boiling—30 seconds is all it takes!
- Use a generous amount of cheese for extra creaminess.
- Pat the shrimp dry after boiling to prevent a watery casserole.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: Stick to 30 seconds in boiling water.
- Using too much liquid: Pat the shrimp dry to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Skipping the broil step: It’s key for a crispy, golden topping.
Variations
Make this Easy Shrimp Casserole your own with these twists:
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Freezing: Not recommended—the texture may change.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before using. - What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
Use Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and celery salt. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Assemble ahead and bake just before serving. - How do I know when the shrimp is done?
It should be pink and opaque, reaching 145°F internally. - Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely—try Gouda or Monterey Jack for a twist.
Conclusion
This Easy Shrimp Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. It’s quick to make, perfect for any occasion, and sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious seafood dish that comes together in no time!
