Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole is a rich, creamy, and buttery seafood dish topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs. The combination of tender shrimp, melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and a crunchy golden topping makes this dish both indulgent and satisfying.

The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, and potlucks. Whether you’re looking for an easy seafood dish to impress guests or a comforting meal for the family, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time—perfect for busy nights.
• Rich and Flavorful: A perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and buttery goodness.
• Great for Gatherings: Easily serves a crowd and can be prepared ahead of time.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, swap out cheeses, or adjust seasonings to your taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot – for boiling the shrimp
• Mixing bowls – to combine ingredients
• Casserole dish (2 1/2-quart) – for baking
• Strainer – to drain the shrimp
• Oven and broiler – for baking and browning
• Instant-read thermometer – ensures shrimp is cooked properly
• Spatula or spoon – for mixing and spreading

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure they are thawed properly before cooking to prevent excess liquid in the casserole.
• Shred your own cheese for better melting, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.
• Pat the shrimp dry after boiling to avoid extra moisture in the casserole.
• Toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry pan before topping for extra crispiness.

Ingredients (Servings: 8)

For the Casserole:

• 2 lbs large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
• 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
• 1 Tbsp salt (for cooking water)
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• 1 Tbsp butter (plus extra to grease the pan)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the Oven and Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish (or a 9×9 square dish, deep 10-inch skillet, or 9-inch pie pan) with butter.

2. Cook the Shrimp

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add 1 Tbsp salt and 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning to season the shrimp.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 30 seconds—just until opaque and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp using a strainer and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
5. Let the shrimp cool for a few minutes, then drain any excess water from the bowl.

3. Prepare the Filling

1. Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper to the shrimp. Stir until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses and stir to combine.
3. Transfer the shrimp mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

4. Make the Topping

1. In a small bowl, melt 1 Tbsp butter.
2. Stir in panko breadcrumbs until evenly moistened.
3. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the shrimp mixture.

5. Bake the Casserole

1. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 13-15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F (use an instant-read thermometer).
2. Broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the breadcrumbs.
3. Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This Shrimp Casserole is delicious served warm but also holds up well at room temperature, making it perfect for transporting to potlucks or holiday gatherings. Enjoy its rich, cheesy goodness with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Since this casserole is cheesy and indulgent, lighter and fresher side dishes work best to complement it. Here are eight great options:

1. Garlic Butter Asparagus

Roasted or sautéed asparagus with garlic and butter adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture that balances the creamy casserole. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving enhances the flavor.

2. Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and homemade croutons brings a light and refreshing contrast to the rich shrimp dish. The tangy dressing adds an extra layer of flavor.

3. Lemon Butter Rice

Fluffy white rice tossed with butter, garlic, and lemon zest makes for a simple yet delicious side. The citrus notes help cut through the richness of the casserole.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts roasted until golden brown and caramelized add a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with seafood and cheese. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra depth.

5. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the extra cheesy sauce from the casserole. Serve them fresh out of the oven with a little extra butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.

6. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For an extra comforting meal, pair the casserole with smooth and creamy mashed potatoes. The mild flavor of the potatoes helps balance the richness of the shrimp and cheese.

7. Coleslaw

A simple, tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinegar-based dressing provides a crisp and refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy casserole.

8. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled or roasted zucchini adds a light and slightly smoky element to the meal. The mild flavor pairs well with the bold seasoning of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this casserole is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfect every time:

1. Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cooks very quickly and can become rubbery if left in boiling water for too long. Only cook for 30 seconds before removing them from the heat. They will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.

2. Not Draining the Shrimp Properly

Shrimp naturally release moisture, which can lead to a watery casserole. After cooking, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing them with the other ingredients.

3. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Shred your own cheese for a creamier texture and better flavor.

4. Skipping the Broil Step

Broiling the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking creates a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. Skipping this step can result in a soft, less appealing texture.

5. Not Letting the Casserole Rest

Allowing the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before serving helps the cheese set and prevents it from being too runny. This also improves the overall texture and makes serving easier.

6. Using the Wrong Baking Dish

A 2 1/2-quart casserole dish is the best option for even cooking. A dish that’s too shallow may cause the shrimp to overcook, while one that’s too deep can prevent even heat distribution.

7. Overloading with Seasonings

While seasonings like Old Bay, garlic powder, and black pepper enhance the dish, too much seasoning can overpower the delicate shrimp flavor. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.

8. Not Making It Ahead of Time

This casserole can be partially prepped ahead to save time. You can assemble everything except the breadcrumb topping, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, add the topping and cook as directed.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll achieve the perfect shrimp casserole every time—cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.Recipe Tips for the Best Shrimp Casserole

1. Choose the Right Shrimp

Using large shrimp (21-24 count) ensures a juicy, meaty texture that holds up well in baking. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

2. Shred Your Own Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best creamy texture, shred fresh mozzarella and cheddar cheese before mixing it into the casserole.

3. Avoid Overcooking

Shrimp cook in just 30 seconds when boiled, so avoid leaving them in hot water for too long. Overcooking makes them rubbery and tough. They will continue to cook in the oven, so slight undercooking before baking is ideal.

4. Keep the Breadcrumbs Crispy

To maintain the crispy topping, toast the panko breadcrumbs lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the casserole. This adds extra crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy during baking.

5. Adjust Seasonings to Taste

This casserole has a mild seafood flavor with a hint of Old Bay seasoning. If you prefer more spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a tangier taste, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.

6. Prevent a Watery Casserole

Shrimp naturally release moisture, which can make the casserole watery. To avoid this:

• Drain shrimp well after cooking and pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Use full-fat mayonnaise instead of a low-fat version, as it helps keep the mixture creamy.
• Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving so the cheese sets properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended because the mayonnaise-based filling can separate and become grainy when thawed.

How to Reheat Shrimp Casserole

For the best results, reheat the casserole in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave to maintain its texture.

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5-6 minutes to maintain the crispy breadcrumb topping.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, but note that the topping may soften.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, slightly lighter version of this dish. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or onions can be mixed into the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them beforehand to remove excess moisture.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed.

What if my casserole turns out watery?

Excess liquid is usually caused by overcooked shrimp or improper draining. To fix this, soak up any extra moisture with a paper towel before serving.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely. Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for extra heat. You can also drizzle hot sauce on top before serving.

What cheese works best for this casserole?

A combination of mozzarella and cheddar provides a creamy, rich texture with just the right amount of sharpness. You can also experiment with Parmesan, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

The only ingredient that contains gluten is the panko breadcrumbs. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds as a substitute.

Conclusion

This cheesy shrimp casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, buttery, and crispy textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or holiday gatherings.

By following the tips for choosing the right shrimp, preventing excess moisture, and achieving the perfect crispy topping, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying seafood casserole every time. Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice for a well-rounded meal.

Try this easy shrimp casserole recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish made right at home.