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If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender seafood with a golden, crispy topping, look no further than this delightful Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe. It’s an absolute treasure for any seafood lover who craves a rich, savory bake that’s easy to make yet instantly impressive. Picture juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp enveloped in a creamy blend of mayonnaise and cheeses, all topped with buttery panko crumbs that crisp up just right in the oven. This casserole blends textures and flavors in a way that feels like a big warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe lies in how simply these ingredients come together. Each one plays a crucial role—from the flavorful shrimp to the melty cheeses and crunchy topping—delivering a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures. Let’s break down what you’ll need to whip this up effortlessly.
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, providing succulent seafood flavor and protein.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning: Adds that classic, slightly spicy seafood seasoning perfect for shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water: Enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor during boiling.
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise: Gives moisture and creaminess that binds the shrimp and cheese together.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle hint of savory garlic without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
- 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan: Used to add richness and to crisp up the panko topping beautifully.
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Creates a delightfully crunchy, golden cover on the casserole.
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts wonderfully for gooey creaminess.
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and vibrant flavor to the dish.
How to Make Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
You want to get your oven ready first—preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, make sure to grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish generously with butter. This little step ensures your casserole won’t stick and helps develop that gorgeous crisp crust on the bottom and sides.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Fill a large pot with water, add the salt and Old Bay seasoning, and bring it to a lively boil. This seasoned water quickly infuses the shrimp with flavor as it cooks. Drop the peeled and deveined shrimp in and cook just until the shrimp turns opaque, about 30 seconds—don’t overcook here, as the shrimp will finish cooking in the oven. Drain promptly and transfer to a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In the bowl with your shrimp, add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir everything gently so every shrimp gets a creamy, flavorful coating. Then fold in both the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, mixing until everything is evenly distributed. This blend ensures each scoop will be cheesy, tangy, and mouthwateringly delicious. Pour and spread this mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish.
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Panko Topping
Melt the tablespoon of butter in a small pan or microwave-safe bowl. Once melted, stir in the panko bread crumbs until they’re well-coated with butter. This is the secret to that perfectly crunchy, golden topping that adds an irresistible texture contrast. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the shrimp and cheese filling. Your casserole is now ready to bake!
Step 5: Bake and Broil
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F and the bubbling cheese mixture looks set and luscious. For the crowning touch, switch your oven to broil and let it brown the panko topping for 1 to 2 minutes—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn. Once done, allow the casserole to rest for about 15 minutes before serving. This wait lets the flavors meld beautifully and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe
Garnishes
The casserole shines on its own, but a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a pop of color and a fresh note that brightens each bite. You could also add a little squeeze of lemon juice or thin lemon slices on the side to complement the seafood’s natural zest.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich and creamy shrimp casserole with simple, crisp side dishes like a light green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans. Roasted asparagus or a medley of sautéed seasonal vegetables also make lovely companions, offering a balance to the richness of the cheese and shrimp.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve individual portions in mini ramekins for a charming touch. Alternatively, layer this casserole over a bed of fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes for a heartier meal, letting the cheesy panko topping add beautiful texture and flavor every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this wonderful Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe, no worries! Simply transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, and reheating is a breeze when you’re ready to indulge again.
Freezing
Though fresh is always best, you can freeze the casserole before baking by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep well for up to 1 month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through and the topping regains some of its crispness—about 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that toasty panko crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before boiling. Using fresh or thawed shrimp won’t affect the delicious results of this Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the recipe?
If you want to lighten it up, plain Greek yogurt or a creamy sour cream can be used in place of mayonnaise, but keep in mind this will slightly change the texture and tanginess.
Can I add other seasonings or vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add a bit of paprika, cayenne, or fresh herbs like dill. Chopped mushrooms or bell peppers can also be mixed in for extra flavor and color, just be sure to sauté them beforehand to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs will work fine but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, consider toasting them first with the butter for best results.
How can I tell when the casserole is done?
The center should reach 145°F, the cheese mixture will be bubbly and set, and the panko topping should be golden brown after broiling. Let it rest a bit and it will slice cleanly and taste amazing!
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe is just one of those comforting, feel-good dishes that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s simple enough to pull together on a weeknight yet elegant enough to impress guests. Once you taste the juicy shrimp mingling with the creamy cheese and crispy topping, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. I really hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!
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Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shrimp Casserole is a quick and delicious seafood dish featuring tender shrimp coated in a creamy, cheesy mixture, topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for an easy dinner that serves eight, it combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver a comforting and flavorful casserole.
Ingredients
Shrimp Mixture
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21–24 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish generously with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning along with 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the shrimp and cook just until they turn opaque, which takes about 30 seconds. Drain the shrimp immediately and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: To the cooked shrimp, add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to coat the shrimp evenly. Then fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, mixing gently to combine. Transfer this cheesy shrimp mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Make Topping: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are evenly coated with the butter. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb topping evenly over the shrimp mixture in the casserole dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the casserole is bubbling hot.
- Broil for Crispy Topping: Switch your oven to broil, and broil the casserole for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to brown the breadcrumb topping without burning it, creating a delicious golden crust.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes to set and cool slightly before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes portioning easier.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should turn opaque quickly for a tender texture.
- The resting time improves flavor and makes the casserole easier to serve.
- Feel free to substitute the cheeses with your favorites, such as Monterey Jack or a sharp white cheddar.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp mixture.
