If you’re craving comfort food with a coastal twist, Shrimp Casserole delivers everything you could want in a single, irresistible bake. Think creamy rice, plump succulent shrimp, and the perfect mingle of veggies and cheddar, all topped off with a crunchy golden finish. This tried-and-true favorite is a weeknight hero or potluck superstar—simple enough for busy days but sophisticated enough to impress at your next family gathering. Friends, this is the kind of meal that brings smiles to the table every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Shrimp Casserole are refreshingly down-to-earth yet each one plays its role to absolute perfection. From juicy shrimp to a creamy, cheesy base and that classic buttery breadcrumb topping, here’s how each part brings out the magic in every bite.
- Shrimp (1 lb, medium, peeled and deveined): These little gems are the protein-packed stars, turning your casserole into a true seafood delight.
- Cooked White Rice (2 cups): Rice provides a fluffy, satisfying foundation that soaks up all the creamy, savory flavors.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): This adds richness while helping your veggies achieve just the right hint of caramelization.
- Chopped Onion (1/2 cup): Onion brings subtle sweetness and depth, enhancing each layer of flavor.
- Chopped Celery (1/2 cup): Celery adds a quiet crunch and a fresh, herbal kick.
- Chopped Green Bell Pepper (1/2 cup): Bell pepper lends color and a gentle vegetal sweetness that perks up the casserole.
- Minced Garlic (2 cloves): Garlic is the flavor booster, making everything more savory and satisfying.
- Canned Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz): This gives the casserole its velvety texture and classic comfort food vibe.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Sour cream contributes tang and an extra bit of creaminess, balancing the richness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup): Cheddar melts into gooey deliciousness and brings sharp, rich flavor throughout.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Paprika adds gentle warmth and a hint of color without overpowering the dish.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for seasoning every layer so your Shrimp Casserole sings with flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Freshly ground black pepper adds just the right touch of heat to round out each bite.
- Chopped Parsley (1/4 cup): Parsley perks things up with color and a fresh, herbal pop—save some for garnish, too.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Breadcrumbs bring the crunch party on top, soaking up buttery goodness as they brown.
- Melted Butter (1 tbsp): Blending with breadcrumbs, it creates that irresistible golden topping everyone loves.
How to Make Shrimp Casserole
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when you are. In a large skillet over medium heat, swirl in the olive oil and toss in your onions, celery, and green bell peppers. Let them sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently until everything is tender and your kitchen smells like pure coziness. Add the minced garlic, letting it bloom for another 30 seconds—just long enough to infuse the oil and vegetables without burning.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Now, stir the shrimp into your sizzling veggie mix. Cook the shrimp for just 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook—they’ll finish up in the oven. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat so the shrimp stay juicy.
Step 3: Prep the Creamy Mixture
In a large bowl, bring together the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until it’s well combined, creating a rich, creamy base that is just waiting for those veggies and shrimp.
Step 4: Combine & Assemble
Fold the warm shrimp and vegetable mixture into your rice and cream base, stirring just until everything’s beautifully coated. Pour this glorious mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top so the casserole bakes evenly from edge to center.
Step 5: Make the Topping
In a small bowl, blend the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over your casserole, making sure every inch gets some love. This is your ticket to a golden, crunchy top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the casserole, uncovered, into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is bubbling and beautifully golden. You’ll know it’s done when the aroma fills your kitchen and the top is crisp with hints of toasty cheese peeking through.
How to Serve Shrimp Casserole
Garnishes
Finish your Shrimp Casserole with a generous sprinkling of fresh parsley for color and a bright, fresh flavor contrast. A dash more paprika or a few thinly sliced green onions can also add a restaurant-worthy look and subtle spice.
Side Dishes
This casserole plays well with plenty of sides! Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, buttery garlic bread, or even some simple roasted vegetables for a perfectly balanced meal that highlights the flavors of your Shrimp Casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop the Shrimp Casserole into individual ramekins before baking—everyone loves their own little bubbling dish. Or try serving it inside carved-out bell peppers for a pop of color and an edible bowl that doubles as a beautiful plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Shrimp Casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen, making each reheated serving as delicious as the first. Just be sure to cool the casserole completely before storing to keep everything fresh.
Freezing
To freeze, let the Shrimp Casserole cool fully, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to two months. For best results, freeze before baking; then just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed when you’re ready for a no-stress meal.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the whole casserole (covered with foil) in a 325°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. If you want to bring back the crunch, remove the foil for the last few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh in Shrimp Casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before adding them to the skillet. This ensures the casserole isn’t watery and your shrimp cook evenly.
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?
Yes! Brown rice works just fine in Shrimp Casserole and adds a slightly nutty flavor and extra fiber. Make sure your brown rice is fully cooked and cooled before mixing it into the casserole.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and swap the breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative. Double-check that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free to keep the dish safe for everyone.
What other cheeses can I try in Shrimp Casserole?
Feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even a bit of smoked Gouda will pair beautifully and add their own unique twist to the dish. Just go with cheeses that melt smoothly for the best results.
How can I make this Shrimp Casserole spicier?
Kick things up a notch by adding 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce when mixing the creamy base. The heat pairs fantastically with the cheesy and creamy elements.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your dinner routine with a dish that’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and full of irresistible flavor, let Shrimp Casserole be your next kitchen adventure. There’s something magical about a creamy, cheesy bake with tender shrimp and that irresistible golden topping—give it a try, and don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds!
Print
Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Shrimp Casserole is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a savory rice and vegetable mixture, topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Vegetable Mixture:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce and Toppings:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Cook shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix rice, soup, sour cream, cheese, and seasonings. Add shrimp and vegetables.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumb mixture and bake until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For added spice, consider incorporating cayenne or hot sauce.
- Alternative soups like cream of celery or shrimp can be used.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
