Creamy and Cheesy Shrimp Casserole

This hearty shrimp casserole combines the natural sweetness of tender shrimp with a creamy, cheesy sauce and crispy topping for a dish that's both comforting and elegant. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without hours in the kitchen.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu dinner party and needed something impressive with minimal effort. Since then, it's become my go-to dish whenever friends request "that amazing shrimp thing" you make.

• Large shrimp: fresh is best but thawed frozen works perfectly too
• Old Bay Seasoning: the classic seafood seasoning that gives this dish its distinctive flavor profile
• Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base while adding richness and tanginess
• Garlic powder: infuses the dish with aromatic flavor without the work of mincing fresh garlic
• Black pepper: adds gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the shrimp
• Butter: enriches the breadcrumb topping and helps it achieve a perfect golden brown
• Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese breadcrumbs that create an exceptionally light and crispy topping
• Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for that coveted cheese pull effect
• Cheddar cheese: adds sharp flavor depth that balances the mild mozzarella

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil with salt and Old Bay seasoning. This flavored water gently cooks the shrimp while infusing them with seasoning. Add your shrimp and cook just until they turn pink and opaque approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute. Watch carefully as overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Immediately drain and transfer to a mixing bowl to halt cooking.

Create the Creamy Base:

Add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper to your bowl of shrimp. Gently fold these ingredients together until each shrimp is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. The mayonnaise creates a rich base that will become wonderfully creamy when baked.

Add the Cheesy Element:

Fold in both the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The combination of these cheeses creates both creaminess and depth of flavor. Transfer this entire mixture to your buttered casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer.

Prepare the Crispy Topping:

Melt butter in a small bowl and add the panko breadcrumbs, tossing until each crumb is lightly coated. This butter coating ensures your topping will become golden and crispy rather than dry. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp to create a beautiful crust.

Bake to Perfection:

Place your casserole in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 13-15 minutes until the center reaches 145°F. For an extra crispy topping, broil for the final 1-2 minutes while watching carefully to prevent burning. Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before serving this helps the ingredients set and flavors meld.

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The Old Bay seasoning is my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother introduced me to this classic spice blend when I was just learning to cook, and now the distinctive aroma always reminds me of family gatherings by the water. I keep a tin in my spice cabinet at all times for those moments when ordinary seasonings just won't do.

Storage Secrets

This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, I recommend using the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave to restore some of that crispy topping magic. If you notice excess moisture after refrigeration, simply blot with a paper towel before reheating.

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Creative Variations

While this classic version is perfection, I occasionally play with different flavor profiles. Try adding a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, or mix in some diced bell peppers for color and sweetness. For a Mediterranean twist, include some crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. The basic technique remains the same, but these small changes create entirely new dishes.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with so many sides. For a lighter meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For heartier appetites, offer steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. I particularly love serving this with roasted asparagus or broccoli for a complete meal that comes together with minimal effort.

The Cultural Background

This comforting dish has roots in coastal American cuisine, where seafood casseroles became popular in the mid-20th century. These recipes represented the perfect marriage of convenience foods like mayo and packaged breadcrumbs with fresh local seafood. Today, this type of casserole has evolved into a timeless comfort food that balances nostalgia with modern tastes.

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.