Shrimp Casserole Creamy Buttery

Featured in Family Dinner Ideas.

This comforting shrimp casserole combines tender, perfectly cooked shrimp with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs, it achieves an irresistible crispy crust. This dish not only bursts with flavors but also comes together effortlessly in under 30 minutes. Perfect as a centerpiece for weeknight dinners or an elegant main course for gatherings, this casserole adapts seamlessly to any occasion. Options for serving include pairing with rice pilaf, roasted veggies, or even as small-portioned appetizers. Whether fresh, refrigerated, or even frozen, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy seafood lovers!

Fatiha
Updated on Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:42:37 GMT
A plate of shrimp and rice. Pin it
A plate of shrimp and rice. | zestplate.com

This hearty shrimp casserole transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dish that's been my go-to for impromptu dinner gatherings. The natural sweetness of shrimp shines through a velvety cheese sauce, all crowned with a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping that adds the perfect textural contrast.

I first created this recipe when unexpected guests arrived during a stormy evening, and I needed something impressive with minimal effort. The empty casserole dish and requests for the recipe confirmed I had discovered a true keeper.

Ingredients

  • Large shrimp: peeled and deveined for the star protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully
  • Old Bay seasoning: provides that classic seafood flavor profile that perfectly complements shrimp
  • Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base that holds everything together while adding richness
  • Garlic powder: infuses the dish with aromatic flavor without the work of mincing fresh garlic
  • Black pepper: adds necessary heat and depth to balance the creamy elements
  • Butter: enriches the breadcrumb topping and helps it achieve that perfect golden finish
  • Panko bread crumbs: deliver that essential crunchy texture contrast to the tender shrimp
  • Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully creating those irresistible cheese pulls everyone loves
  • Cheddar cheese: introduces a sharper flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Shrimp:
Fill a large pot with water adding a generous tablespoon of salt and the Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a rolling boil before adding your shrimp. Watch carefully as they only need about 30 seconds to turn pink and opaque. This brief cooking time ensures they remain tender when baked later. Immediately drain to stop the cooking process and transfer to a mixing bowl to cool slightly.
Create the Creamy Base:
Add mayonnaise to the slightly cooled shrimp ensuring even coating by gently folding with a rubber spatula. The mayo should coat each shrimp lightly without pooling in the bottom of the bowl. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and black pepper evenly across the mixture continuing to fold until well incorporated. The seasonings should be distributed uniformly throughout.
Add the Cheese Element:
Add both the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese to the shrimp mixture. Gently fold to distribute evenly being careful not to break up the shrimp. The cheese should be visible throughout the mixture providing pockets of melty goodness in the finished dish. Transfer this mixture to your buttered casserole dish spreading in an even layer.
Create the Crispy Topping:
Melt the tablespoon of butter completely either in a small saucepan or microwave until just liquid. Pour over the panko breadcrumbs in a small bowl and toss thoroughly until every crumb is lightly coated. This ensures even browning and maximum crispiness. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp and cheese creating a uniform layer across the entire surface.
Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven uncovered and bake for exactly 13 to 15 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F which ensures food safety while preventing the shrimp from overcooking. For an extra golden topping switch to the broiler for the final 1 to 2 minutes watching constantly to prevent burning. Allow the casserole to rest for a full 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors marry and the sauce set.
A plate of food with shrimp and cheese. Pin it
A plate of food with shrimp and cheese. | zestplate.com

The Old Bay seasoning is truly the secret ingredient that makes this casserole special. My grandmother first introduced me to this spice blend decades ago for her famous crab boil and now I use it in nearly all my seafood dishes. The unique combination of paprika celery salt mustard and other spices elevates the shrimp in a way that no other seasoning can match.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with so many different sides. For a complete meal serve alongside a simple rice pilaf that will soak up the delicious sauce. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides the perfect acidic balance to cut through the richness of the dish. For a more elegant presentation spoon portions into individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge.

A plate of shrimp and rice. Pin it
A plate of shrimp and rice. | zestplate.com

Make Ahead Options

The beauty of this casserole lies in its flexibility. Prepare the entire dish up to the baking point and refrigerate covered for up to three days. When ready to serve simply bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time. This makes it perfect for entertaining when you want to focus on your guests rather than last minute kitchen work.

Storage Solutions

Leftovers maintain their flavor remarkably well when stored properly. Transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For reheating avoid the microwave which can make the shrimp tough. Instead place in a 300°F oven covered with foil until just warmed through about 15 minutes. The air fryer also works wonderfully for smaller portions giving you back that crispy topping in just 5 minutes at 350°F.

Variation Ideas

This recipe provides an excellent base for customization. Try adding chopped spinach or artichoke hearts for added vegetables and flavor complexity. Swap the shrimp for cooked lobster meat or lump crab for an even more luxurious version. For a Cajun twist increase the black pepper and add a dash of cayenne along with some diced bell peppers. The versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it based on available ingredients or flavor preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which only takes about 30 seconds in boiling water.

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the shrimp filling up to three days in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ What’s the best way to achieve a crispy breadcrumb topping?

Broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after baking until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.

→ Can I substitute the cheeses used in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with similar melting cheeses like Gruyère, Colby Jack, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.

→ How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

→ Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko, and ensure your seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Shrimp Casserole Creamy Buttery

Dive into creamy shrimp topped with crispy breadcrumbs for ultimate comfort.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
03 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
04 2/3 cup mayonnaise
05 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
07 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
08 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
09 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
10 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with butter.

Step 02

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add Old Bay seasoning. Add shrimp and cook until opaque, about 30 seconds. Drain and transfer to a bowl.

Step 03

Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and pepper to the shrimp. Stir to coat. Add cheeses and stir again. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish.

Step 04

Melt butter and stir in bread crumbs. Sprinkle over the shrimp mixture.

Step 05

Bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F. Broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the crumbs. Rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

  1. Don’t overcook the shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
  2. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and enhances flavor.
  3. For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end.

Tools You'll Need

  • 2 1/2 quart casserole dish
  • Large pot for boiling water
  • Oven

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Shellfish (shrimp)
  • Dairy (cheeses, butter)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 24 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 25 g