Shrimp lovers, rejoice! The Oven-Baked Shrimp Casserole with Cheese is a decadent and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat your family to something special, this casserole is a surefire way to impress. With succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and a golden, bubbly crust, this dish is as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. Here’s everything you need to know about making this delicious recipe.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To make this mouthwatering shrimp casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of shrimp: Peeled and deveined. Medium or large shrimp work best.
- 2 cups of shredded cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for different flavors.
- 1 cup of cooked rice or pasta: This adds a hearty base to the casserole. Rice works well, but small pasta like elbow macaroni or penne can also be used.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup: You can also use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup depending on your taste preferences.
- 1/2 cup of sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang to the dish.
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise: For extra richness.
- 1 small onion: Finely chopped.
- 2 cloves of garlic: Minced.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs: For the crunchy topping. Panko breadcrumbs work especially well.
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: To mix with the breadcrumbs for a flavorful topping.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season according to your preference.
- Optional: A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, or fresh parsley for garnish.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until they start to turn pink. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice or pasta, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until well combined. Add the cooked shrimp mixture to the bowl and fold everything together. At this point, you can add in some of the shredded cheese, reserving the rest for the top.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the shrimp mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re using paprika or cayenne pepper, you can add it to this mixture for a bit of extra flavor. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If you like a crispier topping, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the casserole warm, alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Casserole
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Since the shrimp will bake in the oven, it’s important not to overcook them during the initial sautéing.
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
- Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it from cold.
The Oven-Baked Shrimp Casserole with Cheese is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the best of seafood and creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it out today, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors that this casserole has to offer