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
- Delicious Flavor – The combination of shrimp, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering dish.
- Simple Preparation – With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a fancy meal without the fuss.
- Versatile Dish – Perfect for family dinners or special occasions like holidays and birthdays.
- Crispy Topping – Enjoy the satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft shrimp.
- Nutritious Option – Packed with protein and healthy ingredients, this casserole is both filling and wholesome.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish – Ensures even cooking and provides ample space for all ingredients.
- Mixing bowl – Allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
- Measuring cups – Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving perfect flavor balance.
Ingredients
For this delightful Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, you will need:
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
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving
- 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 bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a greased baking dish in an even layer.
Step 3: Make the Stuffing
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated with butter.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spoon the stuffing mixture over the shrimp evenly.
- Press down gently to ensure it adheres to the shrimp.
Step 5: Bake
- Place in preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness. Enjoy your delicious Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole!
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, here are some serving suggestions that will complement this delicious dish.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole in a large dish for everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Individual Portions
- For a more refined presentation, use small ramekins to serve individual portions of the casserole. This adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
With Fresh Lemon Wedges
- Present lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and enhances the shrimp’s natural taste.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each serving with additional chopped parsley. It adds color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Serve with slices of crusty bread on the side. This is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a satisfying crunch.
Accompanied by a Salad
- A light salad pairs well with the richness of the casserole. Consider a simple green salad or a classic Caesar salad for balance.
How to Perfect Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
To ensure your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp will yield better flavor and texture than frozen shrimp. Always opt for high-quality seafood for the best results.
- Don’t overcook – Keep an eye on cooking time to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. They should be just cooked through when you take them out of the oven.
- Experiment with breadcrumbs – Different types of breadcrumbs (like panko or Italian-style) can add unique textures and flavors to your casserole.
- Adjust spices to taste – Feel free to modify spices according to your preference. Adding more garlic or herbs can enhance the overall taste.
- Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking allows flavors to meld together, making every bite more delicious.
- Try different cheeses – While Parmesan is traditional, experimenting with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can create delightful variations.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting and flavorful side.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crisp texture and fresh taste that balances the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offers both color and nutrition.
- Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the shrimp perfectly without overwhelming its flavor.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast and lightens up the meal beautifully.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread adds a delightful hint of sweetness and is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing creates a classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Herbed Quinoa – Quinoa tossed with herbs is a nutritious alternative that adds texture and flavor without being heavy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using frozen shrimp: Fresh shrimp provides better flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; avoid overcooking by removing it from heat as soon as it turns pink. This keeps your casserole tender and juicy.
- Skipping the seasoning: Proper seasoning is crucial. Don’t forget to season both the shrimp and the breadcrumb mixture to enhance overall flavor.
- Choosing the wrong breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, use panko or Italian-style breadcrumbs. Regular breadcrumbs may not provide the same crunch.
- Not letting it rest: Allowing your casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole that you might find helpful.
Can I use other seafood in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in scallops or crab meat for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
What can I serve with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread to create a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions carefully.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or swapping out cheeses to match your taste!
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, a dish that transforms any meal into a festive occasion. This delightful casserole features tender shrimp nestled in a savory mixture of buttery breadcrumbs, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, topped with a crispy, golden crust. Perfect for family dinners or special celebrations, this recipe is as simple to prepare as it is delicious. With just 15 minutes of prep time and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Elevate your dining experience with this comforting seafood bake that promises to impress everyone at the table.
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 oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toss shrimp in olive oil, salt, and pepper; arrange in a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, garlic, parsley, green onions, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Spoon the stuffing over the shrimp and gently press down.
- Bake for 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with parsley and serving with lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
