Shrimp casserole is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the ocean to your table. It is easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or family dinners. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy mayonnaise, and a crispy topping makes it a favorite for seafood lovers. Plus, it is a great way to enjoy shrimp without too much fuss in the kitchen.
How to make Shrimp Casserole
Ingredients:
- 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
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with butter.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Old Bay seasoning.
- Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook until they are opaque, which takes about 30 seconds. Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a bowl.
- In the bowl with the shrimp, add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir everything to coat the shrimp well. Then, add the cheeses and stir again.
- Transfer the shrimp and cheese mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- Melt some butter and stir in the bread crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the shrimp.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 13-15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F. For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the crumbs.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
How to serve Shrimp Casserole
Serve the shrimp casserole warm. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You can also serve it with a squeeze of lemon for added flavor. This dish is great for sharing, so bring it to a potluck or serve it at a family gathering.
How to Store Shrimp Casserole
To store leftover shrimp casserole, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to make Shrimp Casserole
- Make sure the shrimp are not overcooked to keep them tender.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp will work too; just thaw them before cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings and cheese types to match your taste.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, let it broil a bit longer, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them before mixing with the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of seafood in this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute shrimp with crab, lobster, or even a mix of your favorite seafood.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. Check labels for all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Shrimp Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- 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.
- Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook until they are opaque, about 30 seconds.
- Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a bowl.
- In the bowl with the shrimp, add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and pepper, then stir to coat the shrimp well.
- Add the cheeses and stir again.
- Transfer the shrimp and cheese mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- Melt some butter and stir in the bread crumbs, then sprinkle this mixture over the shrimp.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 13-15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F.
- For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the crumbs.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
