Introduction
Do you love shrimp and cheesy baked dishes? Then you’re going to love this Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole! It’s a delicious seafood meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress.
In this recipe, juicy shrimp are baked with a buttery, seasoned stuffing. It’s warm, cheesy, and has just the right crunch from breadcrumbs. Plus, it doesn’t take too long to prepare. Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is simple to follow. Let’s dive into how you can make this yummy dish step by step.
Ingredients – Shrimp Casserole
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to make this casserole:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
For the Casserole:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (to drizzle on top)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Process – Shrimp Casserole
Let’s break it down into simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry using a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice.
- Arrange the shrimp in a greased baking dish. Lay them out flat in a single layer with tails pointing up.
Step 2: Make the Stuffing
- In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, mayo, parsley, mustard (if using), garlic, and onion powder.
- Mix everything well until it looks like soft, moist crumbs. If it feels too dry, you can add a little more mayo or a splash of lemon juice.
Step 3: Stuff the Shrimp
- Using a spoon or your fingers, place a spoonful of the stuffing mixture on top of each shrimp. Press it down gently so it sticks.
- If you want extra flavor, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Butter
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the shrimp and stuffing.
- Drizzle with the extra melted butter for a golden finish.
Step 5: Bake It!
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the topping is golden brown.
- If you want a crispier top, you can broil it for an extra 1–2 minutes (watch it closely!).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
- It pairs well with rice, salad, or garlic bread.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 180 mg |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Vitamin A | 10% Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 12% Daily Value |
| Calcium | 15% Daily Value |
| Iron | 8% Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Q3: What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can try crushed crackers, panko, or even finely crushed cornflakes for a twist.
Q4: Is it okay to skip the cheese?
Of course! If you’re avoiding dairy, just leave out the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Q5: Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely! You can mix in crab meat or scallops with the shrimp for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a perfect meal when you want something tasty but easy. With juicy shrimp, cheesy topping, and savory stuffing, it’s a dish that feels fancy without needing too much work. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, this casserole brings comfort and flavor to your table.
So next time you’re in the mood for seafood, give this recipe a try. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to be a family favorite. Happy cooking!
