Description
This Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring tender shrimp seasoned with Old Bay and garlic powder, topped with a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or casual gathering, serving 8 with rich flavor and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
Cheese and Sauce
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese
Topping and Preparation
- 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking and aid browning.
- Cook shrimp: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt it with 1 tablespoon of salt and add 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling water and cook briefly until the shrimp turn opaque, about 30 seconds. Drain the shrimp immediately and transfer to a bowl to cool slightly.
- Combine ingredients: To the cooked shrimp, add the mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to coat the shrimp evenly. Then fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Transfer this mixture into the prepared casserole dish in an even layer.
- Make topping: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small pan or microwave. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until coated. Sprinkle the buttered bread crumbs evenly over the shrimp and cheese mixture in the casserole dish.
- Bake and broil: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the center temperature reaches 145°F and the mixture is bubbly. For a crispier topping, switch the oven to broil and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crunchy. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the casserole to set. Serve warm, dividing into 8 portions.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp in boiling water; they cook very quickly and can become rubbery.
- You can substitute other types of shredded cheese, but mozzarella and cheddar provide the best melt and flavor balance.
- Broiling at the end is optional but highly recommended for that perfect crunchy breadcrumb topping.
- The casserole dish size of 2 1/2 quarts works best for even cooking and layering.
- Resting time helps the casserole firm up and improves slicing for serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
