Creamy Shrimp Casserole Recipe – Easy One-Dish Seafood Dinner Ready in 45 Minutes!
Delicious creamy shrimp casserole with rice, cheese, and vegetables! Easy one-dish seafood dinner perfect for families. Ready in 45 minutes with simple ingredients.
Introduction
This creamy shrimp casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or special family meals! Packed with tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and a rich cheese sauce, this easy shrimp casserole delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a simple one-dish format. The combination of succulent seafood, creamy textures, and savory seasonings creates a comforting meal that’s both elegant enough for guests and simple enough for everyday cooking.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 people
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Casserole:
- 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or 1 cup uncooked)
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Aromatics:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup additional cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season Shrimp
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat shrimp dry and season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside while preparing other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet with vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and just cooked through. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooked rice, shrimp and vegetable mixture to the creamy base. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the shrimp. Season with paprika and additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the shrimp and rice mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and smooth the top.
Step 7: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, remaining cheddar cheese, and melted butter. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Nutritional Benefits
This delicious shrimp casserole provides excellent nutritional value for a satisfying dinner:
High-Quality Protein: Shrimp delivers lean protein essential for muscle maintenance and repair, with all essential amino acids your body needs.
Heart-Healthy Omega-3s: Seafood provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that support cardiovascular health and brain function.
Selenium and Iodine: Shrimp is rich in selenium for immune function and iodine for proper thyroid health.
Complex Carbohydrates: Rice provides sustained energy and helps make this casserole a complete, filling meal.
Vegetable Nutrition: Bell peppers, onions, and celery add vitamins, minerals, and fiber while keeping calories reasonable.
Calcium Support: Cheese and dairy components contribute to bone health with essential calcium and phosphorus.
Pro Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Casserole:
- Shrimp Size: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and presentation
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp should be just pink to avoid rubber texture
- Rice Preparation: Use day-old rice for better texture and less mushiness
- Cheese Quality: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded
- Even Distribution: Spread ingredients evenly for consistent cooking
- Rest Time: Let casserole rest before serving for easier cutting and serving
Delicious Variations:
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for topping
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free cream soup, vegan sour cream, and dairy-free cheese
Cajun Style: Add extra cayenne, paprika, and Creole seasoning for a spicy kick
Seafood Medley: Mix in crab meat, scallops, or crawfish for a luxurious seafood casserole
Vegetable-Packed: Add frozen peas, corn, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrition and color
Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover shrimp casserole covered for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight!
Freezer Storage: Freeze assembled unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking, adding 10 extra minutes to cook time.
Make-Ahead Strategy: Assemble the entire casserole (except topping) up to 1 day in advance. Add topping just before baking.
Portion Control: Cut into individual squares and store in containers for easy lunch portions throughout the week.
Reheating Tips: Reheat in 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Party Planning: This recipe doubles easily for large gatherings – use two 9×13 dishes or one large roasting pan.
