Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Craving something cozy with a little seafood twist? This shrimp casserole is creamy, cheesy, and so easy to love!

You get tender shrimp, cheesy sauce, and fluffy rice or pasta all baked together. Every bite is warm, rich, and full of flavor.

Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any night you want something special but simple. Easy to mix. So cozy to eat.

Grab a baking dish and your shrimp—let’s whip up this cozy casserole today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: Those who have tried this casserole always ask for the recipe — it’s rich, satisfying, and brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of mayo, two types of cheese, and a hint of spice makes every bite luscious without feeling heavy.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients to create this impressive meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping earlier in the day and popping into the oven when ready to serve.
• Great for Potlucks or Special Dinners: Feeds a crowd and brings something a little different to the table compared to traditional casseroles.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings:

• This casserole serves 6 hungry people as a main dish.
• If serving as part of a larger spread, it can easily feed 8.

Difficulty:

• Easy enough for beginners but still rewarding for experienced cooks who love building rich, layered flavors.

Required Kitchen Tools

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large pot (for boiling shrimp)
• Skillet (for preparing breadcrumbs)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Ingredients for Shrimp Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this flavorful casserole to life (exact amounts are in the recipe card at the end):

• Large Shrimp – peeled and deveined
• Old Bay Seasoning – to bring that classic seafood flavor
• Salt – for seasoning the cooking water
• Mayonnaise – the base of the creamy sauce
• Garlic Powder – adds depth without overpowering
• Ground Black Pepper – for a hint of heat
• Butter – for toasting breadcrumbs and greasing the dish
• Panko Bread Crumbs – for a crunchy topping
• Shredded Mozzarella – for melty goodness
• Shredded Medium Cheddar Cheese – for a rich, sharp flavor balance

Variations for Shrimp Casserole

• Add Vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Stir a bit of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mayo mixture.
• Use Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack, or cheddar for Gruyère for a different flavor twist.
• Breadcrumb Twist: Try using crushed Ritz crackers instead of panko for a buttery, crumbly topping.
• Seafood Mix: Add a handful of lump crabmeat or chopped scallops for a more luxurious version.

How to Make Shrimp Casserole: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Boil the Shrimp

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add Old Bay seasoning and the shrimp.
• Boil for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and just cooked through.
• Drain immediately and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Toast the Breadcrumbs

• In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir frequently until they are lightly golden and crispy.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
• Add in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Stir to combine.
• Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the creamy mixture, making sure the shrimp are evenly coated.

5. Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish.
• Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
• Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy, golden topping.

6. Bake

• Place the casserole into the preheated oven.
• Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
• Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole:

• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
• This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storing Shrimp Casserole

How to Store Leftovers:

• Refrigerator:
  Let the casserole cool completely. Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer:
  For longer storage, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven until warmed through.

Reheating Tips:

• To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes.
• If reheating a single portion, a few minutes in the microwave works fine, but for the best texture, use the oven.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp:
  If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat dry before boiling to avoid extra water in the casserole.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:
  Boil just until pink; overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery in the oven.
• Toast the Breadcrumbs Separately:
  Toasting the breadcrumbs in butter before baking keeps them crispy and prevents them from getting soggy.
• Customize the Cheeses:
  Feel free to experiment with cheese blends — a little parmesan or pepper jack adds a different flavor kick.
• Prep Ahead:
  You can prepare the shrimp mixture up to 24 hours ahead. Assemble everything except the breadcrumbs, refrigerate, and top with breadcrumbs right before baking.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	360 kcal
Protein	26 g
Fat	24 g
Carbohydrates	8 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	750 mg
Cholesterol	190 mg

(Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Shrimp Casserole FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but skip the boiling step. Just make sure to thaw and dry them well if using frozen cooked shrimp.

What’s a good substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
You can use a mix of celery salt, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for a quick homemade alternative.

Can I add rice or pasta to the casserole?
Absolutely. Cooked rice or small pasta like orzo can be stirred into the creamy mixture before baking to make it even heartier.

Is it spicy?
No, this recipe is mild. If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mayo mixture.

Conclusion

Shrimp Casserole is the kind of meal that feels cozy yet special. It’s rich without being heavy, simple without being boring. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and full of tender shrimp — a total win whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or serving friends at a dinner party. This recipe has become one of my favorites for its ease and its crowd-pleasing flavors. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your home too.