Description
This Shrimp Casserole recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp seasoned with Old Bay, coated in a creamy, cheesy mixture, topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side, this casserole offers a delightful blend of textures and rich seafood flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
Creamy Mixture
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.
- Cook shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook briefly until they turn opaque, about 30 seconds. Immediately drain the shrimp and transfer them into a mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- Combine ingredients: To the cooked shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the shrimp with the creamy mixture. Next, fold in the shredded mozzarella and medium cheddar cheeses until everything is well combined. Transfer this mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Make topping: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small pan or microwave. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are well coated with butter. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp and cheese layer in the casserole dish.
- Bake and broil: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the mixture is bubbling. To achieve a golden, crispy topping, switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious shrimp casserole warm.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when boiling; they should just turn opaque to stay tender.
- You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of panko.
- Resting the casserole before serving helps it firm up for cleaner slices.
- To add extra flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped fresh parsley or green onions before baking.
