Shrimp Casserole Bake

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The Shrimp Casserole Bake is a warm and satisfying dish that brings comfort food to a new level. With tender shrimp, hearty rice, sweet vegetables, and a rich creamy sauce, this casserole is baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s a cozy and delicious all-in-one meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping, this dish offers flexibility and bold flavor. You can swap out the veggies, use brown rice for extra fiber, or add a little hot sauce to the mix if you’re craving a kick. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a weekly staple because of how comforting and simple it is.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cooked white rice
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shrimp, frozen peas and carrots, onion, and garlic.
In another bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the sauce over the rice and shrimp mixture, stirring until evenly coated.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, bubbly casserole fresh out of the oven. And when it includes tender shrimp, creamy sauce, savory vegetables, and melty cheese, you know you’re in for a crowd-pleasing meal. The Shrimp Casserole Bake is one of those easy weeknight recipes that checks all the boxes, it’s rich, satisfying, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or meal-prepping for a busy week, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Why This Shrimp Casserole Bake Stands Out

There are countless casserole recipes out there, but this one truly sets itself apart. It combines elements of both comfort and sophistication by layering seasoned shrimp with cooked rice, a creamy base made from a mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cream of mushroom soup, plus sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. The result? A luscious, velvety texture with just the right amount of saltiness and richness.

The breadcrumb topping is a crucial finishing touch. Mixed with butter and Parmesan, it bakes up into a golden, crispy crust that provides a delightful contrast to the creamy interior. It’s this interplay of textures, soft and gooey inside, crispy and savory on top, that makes each bite so satisfying.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Don’t have cheddar? Swap in mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Prefer brown rice? Go for it. Want a bit of heat? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This is a forgiving recipe that allows room for your own flair and creativity.

Nutritional Benefits and Ingredient Highlights

While this dish certainly falls into the “comfort food” category, it includes several nourishing elements:

Shrimp is the star protein, providing lean, low-calorie sustenance. It’s rich in vitamin B12, selenium, and iodine, which are important for brain function and metabolism. Shrimp is also high in antioxidants like astaxanthin, which contributes to its pink hue and supports heart and skin health.
Rice, the base of the casserole, is a good source of energy, and when paired with vegetables like peas and carrots, it becomes a balanced carb that complements the protein from shrimp. You can also opt for brown rice or wild rice to boost fiber content.
Vegetables like peas and carrots contribute vitamins A and C, fiber, and a bit of natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish. These can also be swapped with corn, broccoli, or even sautéed spinach.
Cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise are key to the casserole’s creamy texture, and though they do add richness, using low-fat versions is an option for those seeking a lighter meal.
Cheese, both cheddar and Parmesan, adds a burst of umami and depth. Sharp cheddar is especially good for casseroles because it melts well and packs a punch in small amounts.

Ideal Occasions for Serving

Shrimp Casserole Bake is a recipe that works across a variety of occasions:

Weeknight Dinners: It’s quick and doesn’t require much hands-on time. You can prep everything in advance and simply bake when ready.
Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days and reheats beautifully. Store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners.
Family Gatherings or Potlucks: Its comforting flavor profile and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Holidays or Special Meals: Add fresh herbs or a touch of truffle oil for an elevated take during festive meals.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This shrimp casserole is great for preparing ahead of time. You can fully assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well, just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chill.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave. If you want to restore the crispy topping, reheat it uncovered in the oven or under a broiler for a minute or two.

Flavor Variations & Substitutions

This casserole is endlessly customizable. Here are a few ways you can change it up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand:

Add protein: Stir in cooked diced chicken or lump crabmeat for a seafood medley casserole.
Boost the veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, diced red bell pepper, or fresh spinach for more color and nutrients.
Spice it up: Include a pinch of cayenne, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cream soup and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Change the topping: Instead of breadcrumbs, try crushed Ritz crackers or crushed cornflakes mixed with butter for a different texture.

Pairing Suggestions

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing this creamy shrimp casserole with:

A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness
Garlic bread or dinner rolls for dipping
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli on the side

These accompaniments will enhance your meal while keeping it balanced and flavorful.

Conclusion

The Shrimp Casserole Bake is the definition of cozy, home-cooked comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with succulent shrimp and tender vegetables, everything you want in a hearty baked dish. With minimal prep and flexible ingredients, it’s a reliable go-to for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

Whether you’re a seafood lover looking for a new twist or someone who needs a simple and dependable meal for the family, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce picky eaters to shrimp in a subtle, kid-friendly way.

Easy to assemble, bake, and enjoy, this dish will likely earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

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