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
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious casserole in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of shrimp, herbs, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special occasions like holidays and parties.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your guests with its gourmet appeal and comforting taste.
- Easy Cleanup: As a casserole, it simplifies serving and reduces the number of dishes to wash afterward.
Tools and Preparation
To make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray or parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Essential for cooking the casserole evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: Crucial for combining ingredients without spilling, allowing for easy mixing before baking.
- Knife and cutting board: Needed for chopping herbs and vegetables efficiently while ensuring safety during prep.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Stuffing
- 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
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For Garnish
- 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 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
Step 3: Make the Stuffing
In another bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the stuffing mixture in an even layer in a greased baking dish. Place the seasoned shrimp on top. Finally, add the remaining stuffing over the shrimp.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious 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. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Casual Family Dinner
- Serve the casserole straight from the oven for a cozy family meal. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up any flavorful juices.
Elegant Dinner Party
- Present individual portions in ramekins for a sophisticated touch. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an eye-catching display.
Outdoor Gatherings
- Offer the casserole buffet-style at your next barbecue or picnic. Keep it warm in a chafing dish, making it easy for guests to help themselves.
Comforting Weeknight Meal
- Serve with a simple green salad on the side. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.
Holiday Celebrations
- Include it as a main dish during festive occasions. Its luxurious flavors make it perfect for impressing guests at holiday gatherings.
Leftovers Delight
- Enjoy leftovers in a wrap or sandwich. Layer the shrimp casserole between slices of bread with some fresh greens for an easy lunch.
How to Perfect Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
To achieve the best results with your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, follow these tips for perfection.
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhance the flavor and texture of the dish more than frozen varieties.
- Don’t overcook: Bake just until the shrimp are opaque to maintain their tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before baking and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor depth.
- Make ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it; bake when ready to serve.
- Add cheese variety: Mix different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella into the breadcrumbs for extra richness.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Pairing side dishes with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices to consider:
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread complements the seafood beautifully while providing a great texture contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing offer freshness that balances the rich casserole.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance and color, making your plate visually appealing.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce from the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides both nutrition and flavor diversity.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds a refreshing bite that pairs well with shrimp dishes.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad offers hearty nutrition while complementing seafood perfectly.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a comfort food classic that everyone loves alongside shrimp casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in the final dish.
- Skipping the deveining process: Not deveining shrimp can lead to an unpleasant texture and taste. Always ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined for the best results.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Old breadcrumbs can ruin the dish’s texture. Check the expiration date and opt for fresh breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Monitor cooking times closely to keep them tender and juicy.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your casserole bland. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs as needed to enhance flavor.
- Rushing the assembly: Hurrying through layering can affect presentation. Take time to arrange shrimp and toppings evenly for a beautiful casserole.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the casserole too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
- Best if used within 2-3 months for quality.
Reheating Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently until heated evenly.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole.
What is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a savory dish featuring tender shrimp topped with seasoned breadcrumbs and baked until golden brown.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are thawed and pat them dry before preparing your casserole.
How do I customize my Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
You can add ingredients like spinach, bell peppers, or cheese to enhance flavors. Adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences.
What should I serve with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A side of rice or crusty bread also complements it beautifully.
Is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This casserole adds an elegant touch to any gathering, making it perfect for holidays or dinner parties.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any table. Its luxurious flavor profile combined with ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours!
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that elevates any meal into a special occasion. This comforting recipe features succulent shrimp nestled in a blend of buttery breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, topped with a golden, crispy finish. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings, this casserole combines gourmet appeal with effortless preparation. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create an impressive dish that will delight your family and guests alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 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
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the stuffing mixture followed by the seasoned shrimp. Top with the remaining stuffing.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or 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 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
