Name: Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs large shrimp, 21-24 count, peeled and deveined; 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning; 1 Tbsp salt for the cooking water; 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1 Tbsp butter, plus more for greasing the pan; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 4 oz shredded mozzarella; 4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 13 reviews

If you’re craving something irresistibly cheesy, utterly comforting, and perfect for sharing, let me introduce you to the Shrimp Casserole Recipe. Picture plump, succulent shrimp in a creamy, two-cheese blanket, all baked under a golden layer of buttery panko crumbs. In just about half an hour, you have a dish that works just as brilliantly for a holiday table as it does for a cozy weeknight dinner. If you’re looking to add a little wow factor to your next meal, this Shrimp Casserole Recipe will absolutely win hearts and appetites every time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Shrimp Casserole Recipe stars just a handful of simple ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that rich, savory magic. Every scoop boasts savory shrimp, melty cheese, and a buttery crunch that ties everything together. Here’s why you don’t want to skip a single thing:

Large shrimp (2 lbs, 21-24 count): These hearty shrimp stay juicy and flavorful, providing the perfect bite with every forkful.
Old Bay Seasoning (1 Tbsp, plus more for cooking water): The iconic spice blend gives the shrimp a zesty, well-rounded kick.
Salt (1 Tbsp, for cooking water): This ensures your shrimp are seasoned inside and out right from the start.
Mayonnaise (2/3 cup): Creates that luscious, creamy base without overpowering the seafood flavor.
Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle, aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with the cheeses.
Ground black pepper (1/2 tsp): For a gentle heat and depth that balances the richness.
Butter (1 Tbsp, plus more for greasing): Infuses the dish with extra richness and crisps up the crumb topping like a dream.
Panko bread crumbs (1/2 cup): These light flakes turn supremely crunchy and help soak up just enough of the casserole’s creaminess.
Shredded mozzarella (4 oz): Melts into gooey perfection, binding everything together.
Shredded medium cheddar cheese (4 oz): Adds a sharp, deep cheese flavor and that classic golden finish.

How to Make Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish

Set your oven to 375°F and grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish or deep skillet with butter. This little swipe of butter not only ensures nothing sticks, but it ups the flavor right from the get-go.

Step 2: Boil and Season the Shrimp

Bring a big pot of water to a boil, tossing in 1 tablespoon each of salt and Old Bay Seasoning. Slip in those beautiful shrimp and let them cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 30 seconds. Quickly scoop them out and into a mixing bowl to keep them perfectly tender.

Step 3: Cool and Drain

Let the shrimp cool for a few minutes. Any liquid at the bottom of the bowl can be drained or dabbed away with a paper towel. This step keeps your casserole creamy instead of watery, which is key for the best Shrimp Casserole Recipe.

Step 4: Mix Up the Creamy Filling

Add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper right on top of your shrimp. Stir to coat everything evenly. Then sprinkle over the mozzarella and cheddar, giving it another fold until the cheeses are evenly mingled with the shrimp.

Step 5: Layer and Top with Buttery Crumbs

Transfer the luscious shrimp mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out as evenly as you can. In a separate bowl, melt a tablespoon of butter, then stir in the panko crumbs until they’re all glistening and moist. Scatter these crumbs across the top of your casserole to create that unforgettable crunchy finish.

Step 6: Bake and Broil to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the center is bubbling and reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer. For maximum irresistible crunch, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, just until the crumbs are deeply golden. Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes. It thickens as it cools, making perfect, creamy scoops every time.

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

This dish welcomes simple, bright garnishes! Scatter over some chopped fresh parsley or chives for color and a hint of freshness. Fresh lemon wedges on the side let everyone add their own zingy touch right at the table.

Side Dishes

The Shrimp Casserole Recipe is rich and savory, so it loves crisp, green side salads or tangy slaws for contrast. A fluffy batch of white rice, crusty bread, or even garlic mashed potatoes can make it an extra-comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Dishing up the casserole in individual ramekins is a guaranteed way to wow dinner guests. For potlucks or family-style gatherings, simply serve straight from the skillet or dish, letting everyone dig in together for that ultimate cozy vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Casserole Recipe will keep beautifully! Just cover and refrigerate for up to 2 or 3 days. The flavors settle and meld together, making tomorrow’s lunch even more rewarding than tonight’s dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole unbaked or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble everything except the panko topping, then wrap tightly. Bake and add crumbs when ready. Already baked portions freeze well too; just thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes. Or use an air fryer for a quick re-crisp on the top. Either way, your Shrimp Casserole Recipe comes back to life with all its creamy, cheesy goodness intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp in this Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps prevent extra moisture in your casserole, ensuring the creamy texture you’re after.

What cheese substitutions work well?

If you’re feeling creative, Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Swiss can swap in for either of the cheeses. Just aim for a good melt and mild flavor, so the shrimp still shine.

Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. Prep the shrimp filling and place it into the dish up to three days in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, then add the crumb topping and bake when you’re ready for dinner.

How do I avoid a watery casserole?

This usually happens if shrimp are overcooked or not properly drained. Just let any extra liquid drain off after cooking, pat them dry, and keep the baking time short. If there’s still a little liquid, blot it with a paper towel before serving.

Is this Shrimp Casserole Recipe spicy?

Not particularly, but the Old Bay does give a subtle kick. If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce right into the filling!

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried this Shrimp Casserole Recipe yet, I truly hope you’ll give it a whirl soon. It’s one of those fuss-free, craveable dishes that brings everyone to the table and leaves nothing but happy faces (and maybe a little competition for seconds). Get ready to fall in love with every creamy, cheesy, crunchy bite!