Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Shrimp Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, cheese, and creamy ingredients into a delightful meal. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is simple yet satisfying. Its creamy texture and flavorful components make it a beloved favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Casserole

This Shrimp Casserole is not just easy to prepare but is also packed with flavors and textures that everyone will love. With its creamy base and gooey cheese, it brings comfort food to a whole new level. Additionally, this dish is versatile, allowing for ingredient swaps to suit your taste. Whether you are a seafood lover or just looking for a simple weeknight meal, this casserole will meet your needs with ease.

How to Make Shrimp Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Casserole Mixture:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shrimp, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the remaining butter.
2. Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Top and Bake:

1. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole

This Shrimp Casserole can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. Pair it with a simple garden salad for a complete meal, or serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce. It’s also great for leftovers, making it an ideal option for meal prep.

How to Store Shrimp Casserole

To store leftover Shrimp Casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Tips to Make Shrimp Casserole Perfect

• Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and drained.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is standard, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a different profile.
• Rice Variations: Swap the white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.

Flavor Variations

For a twist on the classic Shrimp Casserole, consider these variations:

• Spicy Shrimp Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for some heat.
• Vegetable-Loaded: Mix in cooked spinach, bell peppers, or other vegetables to increase the nutritional content.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or chives for a fresh flavor boost.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so take them off the heat as soon as they turn pink to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Toast the breadcrumbs in a pan before adding them to the casserole for extra crunch.
• Cool Before Storing: Ensure the casserole cools completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Casserole is a fantastic choice for family dinners or special occasions. Its easy preparation and comforting taste make it a go-to recipe that everyone will enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that showcases the beauty of shrimp in a creamy casserole. Try it this week and see why this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Shrimp Casserole

A delicious and comforting Shrimp Casserole that combines shrimp, cheese, and creamy ingredients. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Casserole, Main Course

Cuisine American, Seafood

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined Fresh shrimp recommended, thaw if using frozen.
• 1 cup cooked white rice Can substitute with brown rice or quinoa.
• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese Try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for variations.
• 1 cup sour cream
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted Use for greasing the baking dish.
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs For topping.
• to taste Fresh parsley, chopped Optional, for garnish.

Instructions

 

Prepare the Shrimp

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Casserole Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shrimp, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the remaining butter.
• Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Top and Bake

• Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
• If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

To store leftover Shrimp Casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Keyword comfort food, Dinner, Easy Recipe, Seafood Recipe, Shrimp Casserole