Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe

Introduction

This shrimp casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner or a special gathering. Quick to prepare and full of flavorful Old Bay seasoning, it combines tender shrimp with a crispy breadcrumb topping for a delightful contrast in texture.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs large shrimp
• 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning (plus 1 Tbsp salt for the cooking water)
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 Tbsp butter (plus more to grease the pan)
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 4 oz shredded mozzarella
• 4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish or skillet with butter.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 Tbsp salt and 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning. Add the shrimp and cook for about 30 seconds, until they turn opaque and are just cooked through. Immediately remove with a strainer and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Let cool for a few minutes, then drain off any water from the bottom or soak it up with a paper towel.
3. Step 3: Add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper to the shrimp. Stir gently to coat. Sprinkle in both cheeses and stir again until combined. Spread the shrimp mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
4. Step 4: Melt 1 Tbsp butter in a small bowl or measuring cup. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are evenly moistened. Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the shrimp.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered at 375°F for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes to brown the breadcrumb topping. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and convenience.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mayo mixture.
• Swap out mozzarella for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Serving the casserole at room temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it easy to transport.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, to keep the shrimp tender and avoid overcooking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

What can I serve with shrimp casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice to soak up the creamy flavors.

Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe

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4.8 from 129 reviews

A creamy and flavorful shrimp casserole featuring large shrimp coated in mayonnaise, garlic, and Old Bay seasoning, topped with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, finished with a buttery panko breadcrumb crust. This easy-to-make baked dish is perfect for a comforting dinner served warm or at room temperature.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp Mixture

• 2 lbs large shrimp
• 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning (plus 1 Tbsp salt for the cooking water)
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese

Bread Crumb Topping

• 1 Tbsp butter (plus more to grease the pan)
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish or skillet with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of Old Bay Seasoning to the boiling water. Add the shrimp and cook for about 30 seconds or just until they turn opaque and are cooked through. Immediately strain the shrimp and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Allow to cool for a few minutes, then drain off any excess liquid by pouring it out or blotting with a paper towel.
3. Mix Shrimp with Seasoning and Cheese: To the shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to coat all the shrimp evenly. Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses onto the shrimp and stir gently until combined. Transfer this mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
4. Prepare the Topping: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate bowl or measuring cup. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are evenly moistened with butter. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp in the casserole dish.
5. Bake and Broil: Bake the casserole uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Then switch your oven setting to broil and broil for 1 to 2 minutes to brown the breadcrumb topping, creating a crispy golden crust.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving. The dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for transporting to gatherings or potlucks.

Notes

• Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best results; avoid overcooking during boiling as shrimp will cook further during baking.
• You can adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning to suit your preferred spice level.
• For a gooier casserole, feel free to add a little extra mayonnaise or cheese.
• Using a thermometer is recommended to ensure shrimp doneness without overcooking.
• This casserole reheats well and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Keywords: shrimp casserole, baked shrimp dish, seafood casserole, cheesy shrimp bake, Old Bay shrimp recipe