This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Featuring tender shrimp, a rich rice base, and a golden breadcrumb topping, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates an indulgent base.
- Crispy Topping: Panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch.
- Simple Yet Elegant: Easy to prepare but impressive enough for dinner parties.
- Customizable: Use rice, orzo, or your favorite grain as the base.
Ingredients for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on, optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Casserole Base:
- 3 cups cooked rice or orzo
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Set aside to marinate.
2. Make the Casserole Base
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, thyme, and paprika. Let the sauce cook for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked rice (or orzo) to the sauce, stirring until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the rice mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Arrange the Shrimp
- Lay the seasoned shrimp on top of the rice mixture, ensuring even coverage.
4. Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp and rice.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- With Sides: Pair with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
- As a Main Dish: Serve with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
- For a Crowd: Double the recipe and use a larger baking dish for gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Casserole
- Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp offer the best texture, but frozen shrimp work well if thawed and patted dry.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for a kick.
- Reheat Carefully: Warm leftovers in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Substitute shrimp with scallops, lobster, or even cooked chicken.
What’s the best rice for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works well. For extra flavor, use garlic or herb-infused rice.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to step 4, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion: A Decadent Seafood Casserole
This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole combines rich, creamy flavors with crispy textures for an unforgettable seafood dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends.
Give this recipe a try and let the compliments roll in!