Shrimp Casserole Creamy Buttery

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.

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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.

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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.