Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that elevates any dinner to a special occasion. With tender shrimp enveloped in buttery, herb-infused breadcrumbs and topped with a crispy layer, this casserole offers both luxury and simplicity. Perfect for intimate dinners or festive celebrations, it brings restaurant-style flair right to your home without complex steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a stunning dish without the fuss.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this casserole fits the bill perfectly.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, herbs, and cheese delivers an irresistible taste that will impress your guests.
- Crispy Texture: The golden topping adds the perfect crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the succulent shrimp inside.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have the right tools at hand for an effortless cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon for mixing
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining all the ingredients easily without spills.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping fresh herbs and other ingredients safely.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Casserole
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Breadcrumb Mixture
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy top.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
Step 3: Make the Breadcrumb Mixture
In another bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a baking dish, spread the shrimp in an even layer. Top with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even covering over all shrimp.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole!
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Serving Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole can elevate your dining experience, making it feel both special and inviting. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your guests.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy, communal feel. Just place it in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.
Individual Portions
- For a more elegant touch, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins. This makes each serving feel special and perfect for dinner parties.
With Fresh Lemon
- Provide lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and enhances the flavors of the shrimp.
Garnished with Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over each serving right before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
Paired with Salad
- Serve alongside a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad or a classic Caesar salad. The crispness of the greens contrasts nicely with the richness of the casserole.
Accompanied by Bread
- Offer crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover casserole and provides an additional texture to your meal.
How to Perfect Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
To ensure your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp provides better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
- Don’t overcook: Bake until just cooked through to keep shrimp tender; they continue cooking while resting.
- Customize toppings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like crab meat or different herbs for added depth.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking lets flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole can create a well-rounded meal that satisfies every palate. Here are some ideal accompaniments:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread complements the casserole’s rich flavors perfectly.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add vibrant color and a delightful crunch next to your dish.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs pairs well with shrimp, absorbing any extra sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide healthy fiber and add a nice caramelized sweetness.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw gives a crunchy texture that balances out the creaminess of the casserole.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with veggies can enhance nutrition while keeping things light.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer comfort and are great for dipping into any remaining sauce on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, a few common pitfalls can affect your dish’s outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure they stay tender.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs enhance the flavor and texture. Ensure your breadcrumbs are fresh for the best results.
- Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can leave your casserole bland. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout the preparation process.
- Skipping the butter: Butter adds richness and moisture to the dish. Don’t skip it—it’s essential for flavor!
- Ignoring garnishes: Fresh parsley or lemon wedges add bright flavors and visual appeal. Always finish with garnishes for an attractive presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Best used within 2-3 months for best taste.
Reheating Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delicious dish featuring shrimp stuffed with seasoned breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, baked until golden brown.
Can I make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I serve with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole suitable for parties?
Absolutely! Its elegant presentation makes it perfect for gatherings and special occasions while being easy to prepare.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is an easy yet impressive dish that will delight your family and friends. Its rich flavors offer room for customization—try adding different herbs or cheeses to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy bringing restaurant-quality dining right into your home!
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a luxurious yet simple dish that transforms any dinner into a special occasion. Featuring tender shrimp enveloped in a savory blend of herb-infused breadcrumbs and topped with a crispy layer, this casserole offers the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or celebrating a festive event, this recipe brings restaurant-style flair to your home with minimal effort. Ready in just over 40 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, coat shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the shrimp in a baking dish and top with breadcrumb mixture evenly.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges and garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
