Name: Shrimp Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count) peeled and deveined 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning 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

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Ever notice how a bubbling casserole dish can transport you straight to grandma’s kitchen? This shrimp casserole does just that. Folks on TikTok and Pinterest can’t stop swooning over it—creamy, cheesy, cozy. It’s weeknight-easy and Sunday-special.

It’s a cozy shrimp casserole dish that warms the soul. Tender shrimp, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce—tossed with pantry staples like rice or noodles. Feels like mom’s casserole from 1989… with a salty ocean kiss. Full details in the blog!

My mom made something just like this when we lived by the coast—she’d hum while stirring, windows open. I learned early: comfort food doesn’t need frills. Just flavor, feeling, and a good broil at the end. I tested a twist. You’ll love the secret!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp casserole is the lovechild of creamy comfort and effortless cooking. It’s one of those magical dishes that feels fancy enough for a special dinner but comes together so easily it’s perfect for a lazy Tuesday night. (No judgment!) 🥘

Seafood lovers rejoice—tender shrimp soak up every bit of cheesy goodness while the crunchy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect contrast. Even picky eaters can’t resist that golden, bubbly finish. Prepare for seconds… and maybe thirds!

Key Ingredients & Tools

The stars of the show? Juicy shrimp and melty cheese. You’ll need 2 pounds of large shrimp (fresh or frozen), Old Bay seasoning for that signature coastal flair, shredded mozzarella and cheddar for creaminess, plus a creamy base made with mayo. Don’t forget the buttery panko crust—it’s the crispy crown 👑 this casserole deserves.

Flat-lay of shrimp casserole ingredients displayed neatly on a clean surface — Fresh ingredients laid out for an easy, creamy shrimp casserole recipe

Tools-wise, it’s all about basics: a skillet to sauté, a greased baking dish for layering, and your trusty oven for bubbling cheesy magic. (Pro Tip: A 9×13 dish works perfectly here!)

Step-By-Step Process

1. Start by seasoning and sautéing the shrimp. Toss the peeled, deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Old Bay. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the shrimp briefly—around 1–2 minutes per side. Stop when they’re just pink (they’ll finish cooking in the oven). 🦐

2. Now for the creamy base: In a bowl, mix together the mayo, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar, saving a little cheese for sprinkling on top later. It’s already smelling like heaven! 💛

3. Assemble! Butter a baking dish, layer the shrimp, and pour the cheesy sauce over the top. Spread it out so every bite is coated. Top with breadcrumbs and that reserved cheese. Into the oven it goes! Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, finishing with a quick broil for a golden crust.

Customizations & Add-Ons

This shrimp casserole recipe practically begs to be customized. Craving veggies? Stir in some sautéed spinach or earthy mushrooms before baking. Want more zing? Add a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for a spicy kick. 🌶️

If you’re not feeling rice or noodles on the side, swap in cooked pasta right into the casserole for a full one-pan meal. Or make it lighter with a side salad—you do you! The ingredients are flexible, and your pantry is the limit. 💡

Ingredient Substitution Chart

Ingredient	Swap Idea
Shrimp	Chicken or white fish
Breadcrumbs	Crushed crackers or crushed chips
Cheddar Cheese	Monterey Jack or pepper jack

Serving & Storage

To serve, spoon heaping portions onto warm plates (cozy vibes, 🔥) with a side of roasted veggies or crusty bread for dipping into all that sauce. It’s a hug in casserole form, and it looks absolutely stunning in its golden, bubbling glory.

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in smaller portions. (Pro Tip: Add a tiny drizzle of mayo or sprinkle of cheese before reheating to keep it creamy.) Enjoy it all over again!

🧠 Expert Insight: The Science Behind a Perfect Shrimp Casserole

Balancing moisture and texture is key in a shrimp casserole to keep the seafood tender and prevent the dish from becoming watery. Using a light binder like béchamel or a subtle starch ensures the flavors meld beautifully without overpowering the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

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Little Kitchen Moments

My Shrimp Casserole always brings back memories of cozy family dinners, especially when my niece declared it her new favorite dish after a kitchen mishap turned into a happy accident. There’s something comforting about how the flavors blend together, making every bite feel like a warm, delicious hug.

FAQs ( Shrimp Casserole Recipe )

How to make shrimp casserole?

To make a delicious shrimp casserole, start by sautéing shrimp with garlic and onions, then mix in your favorite creamy sauce and cooked veggies. Layer everything in a baking dish, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings cozy comfort in every bite! 🍤

Can I use frozen shrimp in shrimp casserole?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works great in shrimp casserole recipes — just thaw them properly and pat dry before cooking. Using frozen shrimp is a convenient way to enjoy this tasty dish any time without compromising flavor or texture. 🌊

What side dishes pair well with shrimp casserole?

Shrimp casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed green beans, a fresh garden salad, or buttery rice. These sides balance out the creamy richness of the casserole, keeping your meal fresh and satisfying. Perfect for a quick family dinner or entertaining guests! 🥗

How can I make shrimp casserole healthier?

To lighten up your shrimp casserole, try using low-fat milk or Greek yogurt in the sauce and add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also swap breadcrumbs for whole-grain options or nix the cheese topping for a lighter touch. Healthy doesn’t mean boring with this flavorful dish! 🥦

Can shrimp casserole be made ahead?

Yes! You can prepare your shrimp casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until it’s time to bake. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze, giving you more time to relax while the oven does the work. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes baking time if reheating from cold. ⏰

Wrapping Up This Cozy Classic

This shrimp casserole brings creamy comfort and simple, homey flavors to your table in under an hour. You’ll love how the tender shrimp and crispy topping come together—easy enough for weeknights, special enough for Sunday dinners. Trust me, it’s a winner every time.

Feel free to sneak in spinach, swap rice for pasta, or spice it up with Cajun seasoning—my favorite easy ways to keep things fresh. Leftovers? Just reheat gently with a splash of mayo to keep that creamy magic alive. Cooking should always feel flexible and fun!

Did this recipe remind you of a family favorite? I’d love to see your twists or how it turned out—snap a pic and share the love. Let’s keep these cozy, homemade traditions alive, one comforting bite at a time.