This creamy, cheesy shrimp casserole is a delightful comfort dish that combines tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and a perfect blend of spices. Baked to golden perfection, it’s the ultimate cozy meal that brings all the flavors together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a family dinner, this shrimp casserole will surely become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this shrimp casserole because it’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful. The combination of shrimp, rice, and vegetables creates a rich and hearty dish, while the spices—like Old Bay seasoning and paprika—bring it all to life. I also enjoy how easy it is to make, and the best part is the golden, crispy top from the breadcrumbs that add a perfect finishing touch. It’s a one-dish meal that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup celery, diced
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until they turn pink. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, heavy cream, sour cream, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
Stir in the cooked shrimp and vegetables. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
If desired, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Storage/Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you want a crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes after reheating. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but the topping won’t be as crispy.
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FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before using them in the casserole.
Can I substitute the rice with something else?
If you prefer, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative to regular rice. Both will work well in the casserole!
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, bake as directed, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. The creaminess and flavor will still be delicious.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this casserole dairy-free by using dairy-free substitutes like non-dairy cheese, coconut milk, and sour cream alternatives. The flavors may vary slightly, but it will still be tasty!
Conclusion
This shrimp casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with creamy goodness and loaded with flavor. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender shrimp, rice, cheese, and spices in the perfect baked casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
📖 Recipe:
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Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy shrimp casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and a cheesy, spiced sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs. Perfect for feeding a crowd or a cozy family dinner, this easy-to-make casserole will quickly become a favorite. The combination of shrimp, vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce is sure to satisfy!
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup celery, diced
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, heavy cream, sour cream, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Stir in the cooked shrimp and vegetables. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- (Optional) Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Frozen shrimp can be used, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
For a low-carb option, you can substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free substitutes like non-dairy cheese, coconut milk, and sour cream alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servin
- Calories: 375 kcal
