Introduction

This easy shrimp casserole recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious, satisfying meal in a hurry. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines tender shrimp with creamy sauce and savory seasonings for a comforting dinner everyone will love. For another quick dinner idea, try this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Ingredients

This creamy, cheesy shrimp casserole delivers incredible flavor with perfectly seasoned shrimp, a rich mayonnaise base, and a golden panko topping that bakes to perfection.

• 2 lbs large shrimp, 21-24 count, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp Old Bay Seasoning
• 1 tbsp salt (for cooking water)
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp butter, plus more to grease the pan
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This streamlined version of The Best Shrimp Casserole is about 25% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients for The Best Shrimp Casserole: peeled shrimp, pasta or rice, cream sauce components, cheese, and seasonings. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in cold water if needed, then pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper texture.

Step 2 — Cook the Base

Prepare your chosen base—either cook pasta al dente according to package directions or prepare rice. Undercook slightly since it will bake further. For pasta, drain well and toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3 — Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Gradually add milk or cream, whisking constantly until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic or Old Bay seasoning.

Step 4 — Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix cooked base, cream sauce, and raw shrimp. Fold gently to coat everything evenly. Add half of your shredded cheese and any vegetables like peas or diced peppers at this stage.

Step 5 — Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread evenly and top with remaining cheese. For extra crunch, sprinkle with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned. The shrimp should be pink and opaque—check by cutting one open to ensure no translucency remains. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Let The Best Shrimp Casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes serving cleaner. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for brightness.

Nutritional Information

Calories	385
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fat	21g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Chicken or Tofu — Swap shrimp for diced chicken breast or firm tofu for a different protein option with similar texture.
• Cauliflower Rice — Replace white rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version of this shrimp casserole.
• Coconut Milk — Use coconut milk instead of dairy cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative.
• Almond Flour Topping — Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free crispy topping.
• Low-Sodium Broth — Choose low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce salt content while maintaining flavor.
• Greek Yogurt Sauce — Replace creamy sauces with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich binder.
• Zucchini Noodles — Use spiralized zucchini instead of pasta layers for a vegetable-forward, low-carb twist.
• Nutritional Yeast — Add nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free, savory umami flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this creamy shrimp casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Serve alongside steamed asparagus or roasted green beans for a fresh, colorful vegetable side.
• For a comforting meal, accompany with garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• This casserole is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, as it’s easy to transport and serve.
• Elevate your plating by serving individual portions in small ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• For a complete seafood feast, start with a light soup like a classic clam chowder.

The Best Shrimp Casserole is a versatile main dish that shines for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using pre-cooked shrimp that becomes rubbery during baking. Fix: Use raw shrimp and adjust baking time to prevent overcooking.
• Mistake: Overloading the casserole with wet ingredients, making it soupy. Fix: Pat shrimp dry and drain canned items thoroughly before mixing.
• Mistake: Skipping the seasoning of each component separately. Fix: Season shrimp, sauce, and toppings individually for balanced flavor throughout.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, causing the sauce to break. Fix: Bake at 350°F (177°C) for even heating and creamy consistency.
• Mistake: Not letting the casserole rest before serving, leading to a runny texture. Fix: Allow 10–15 minutes for the dish to set after baking.
• Mistake: Using low-fat dairy that curdles under heat. Fix: Opt for full-fat sour cream or cream cheese for stable emulsion.
• Mistake: Crowding the baking dish, which steams instead of bakes the top. Fix: Use a shallow 9×13-inch dish for proper browning and texture.
• Mistake: Forgetting to taste the filling before assembling. Fix: Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice in the mixture to suit your preference.
• Mistake: Adding crunchy toppings too early, so they become soggy. Fix: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Mistake: Using frozen shrimp without proper thawing, which waters down the sauce. Fix: Thaw shrimp completely in the refrigerator and pat dry.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your shrimp casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat portions in a 350°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20-25 minutes.

Always use a food thermometer to verify your shrimp casserole reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

This truly is the best shrimp casserole for a simple, satisfying meal. We hope you love this easy recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For more delicious seafood dishes, check out our Maine Sweet Corn & Shrimp Chowder Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for The Best Shrimp Casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the casserole to prevent excess water from making the dish soggy. Using high-quality shrimp is key to achieving the best flavor in The Best Shrimp Casserole.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little melted butter for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened coconut cream works well. These substitutions still help create a rich, creamy sauce that makes The Best Shrimp Casserole so delicious.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover The Best Shrimp Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, which helps maintain the texture better than microwaving.