Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is the kind of dish that turns any dinner into a special occasion. Picture tender, juicy shrimp nestled in a bed of buttery, herb-infused breadcrumbs with a golden, crispy topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. This casserole feels luxurious, yet it’s surprisingly simple to put together, making it ideal for both intimate gatherings and family celebrations. It’s a dish that brings that fancy, restaurant-style charm right into your kitchen without the need for complex steps or hours of preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious casserole ready to bake in no time.
- Flavorful and Savory: The combination of shrimp, herbs, and Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that will impress everyone at your table.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for holiday dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy weeknight meal with loved ones.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is sure to be a hit with both seafood lovers and those new to shrimp dishes.
- Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the warm and satisfying texture that makes this casserole feel like home.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make preparing your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and proper presentation when serving.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining all ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups: Helps achieve precise measurements for perfect flavor balance.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping ingredients like parsley and garlic efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- 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
For Flavoring
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Serving Suggestions
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- 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.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In another bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, chopped parsley, green onions, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the breadcrumb mixture on the bottom of your baking dish. Layer the seasoned shrimp on top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp.
Step 5: Bake
Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added zest. Enjoy your delightful Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole!
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that complement its rich flavors and textures.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the casserole atop a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- Arugula Salad: The peppery taste of arugula pairs well with the buttery shrimp, adding an interesting flavor dimension.
With Lemon Wedges
- Brighten the Dish: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portion, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
- Garnish Option: Use lemon slices as a garnish for an appealing presentation.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty French Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the casserole’s rich sauce.
- Garlic Bread: The garlic flavor complements the shrimp and adds an extra layer of taste.
With Wine Pairing
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully and enhances its seafood flavors.
- Sparkling Wine: Consider serving with sparkling wine for a celebratory touch.
How to Perfect Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Perfecting your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole can elevate it from great to unforgettable. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. If possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs, enhancing the casserole’s crunch.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Aim for a cook time of about 25 minutes.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in different herbs like dill or basil for added complexity in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting side that complements seafood well.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus adds color and a healthy crunch.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing, balancing richness with freshness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers nutrition and bright color against the casserole’s golden topping.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs serves as an excellent base that soaks up any delicious juices from the casserole.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a fun, casual element to your meal while adding sweetness that contrasts savory flavors.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the shrimp casserole.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and nutrition, pairing well with seafood dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish, but there are a few common mistakes home cooks often make. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Keep an eye on them during baking; they should be pink and opaque.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your shrimp and breadcrumb mixture can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously for the best taste.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Freshness matters! Stale breadcrumbs won’t provide the right texture or flavor. Always check your breadcrumbs before using.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for about 5 minutes for better slicing.
- Ignoring garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Don’t skip this final touch; it enhances both appearance and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring large shrimp baked with herbed breadcrumbs and cheese, creating a delicious meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before preparing your casserole.
How long does it take to prepare Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, followed by a cooking time of 25 minutes, making it easy for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
What can I serve with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with rice or crusty bread.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is not only an elegant dish but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a favorite among family and friends. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding different herbs or spices to suit your taste!
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp enveloped in a buttery blend of herb-infused breadcrumbs, topped with a golden, crispy crust that provides the perfect crunch. This luxurious yet simple casserole is great for intimate dinners or family gatherings, offering an elegant restaurant-style experience right in your kitchen. With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a flavorful masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Fresh parsley and green onions
- Garlic and lemon juice for flavoring
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Spread half the breadcrumb mixture in a baking dish; layer shrimp on top and cover with remaining breadcrumbs.
- Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
