Shrimp Casserole: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

Shrimp casserole is a warm, creamy, and satisfying dish that combines tender shrimp, rich cheeses, and a medley of seasonings baked to perfection. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or a potluck, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together quickly for a stress-free meal.
• Rich and Creamy – A perfect balance of seafood flavor, cheese, and sauce.
• Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Perfect for Gatherings – Ideal for serving a group with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
• ½ cup mayonnaise or sour cream
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the shrimp with a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, soup, mayonnaise (or sour cream), diced bell peppers, chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon juice, and spices. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

4. Add the Shrimp

Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the shrimp and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

6. Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

7. Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbling, and the topping is golden brown.

8. Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne for heat.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
• Extra Creamy – Mix in ½ cup of cream cheese.
• Protein Boost – Add cooked chicken or sausage.
• Vegetable Addition – Stir in mushrooms, spinach, or peas.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What kind of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice work well in this dish.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can use cream of celery, cream of chicken, or a homemade béchamel sauce.

How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

Make sure the shrimp are well-drained and avoid overcooking them before baking.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, but the texture will be different. Consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative.

What’s the best cheese for shrimp casserole?

Cheddar, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack are excellent choices.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but reduce baking time slightly to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and substitute brown rice or quinoa for white rice.

What side dishes go well with shrimp casserole?

Try serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Shrimp casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With endless variations and simple ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole is sure to impress.

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