Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole

Introduction

Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the fresh flavors of shrimp with a savory stuffing, all baked to golden perfection. Imagine tender shrimp nestled in a rich, flavorful filling, topped with a crispy layer that adds just the right amount of crunch. This comforting casserole is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for family dinners and special occasions alike.

I remember making this dish for a family celebration, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. The combination of textures and flavors was a hit, and I loved how everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. What I appreciate about this recipe is its ease of preparation. You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven just before serving, which is a lifesaver during busy gatherings.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this casserole offers a unique twist on traditional shrimp recipes. You can customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s seasoned breadcrumbs, herbs, or even a hint of spice. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor. Trust me, this Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is bound to impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons why you’ll love Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:

• Flavorful Filling: The stuffing is rich with herbs, spices, and breadcrumbs that complement the shrimp beautifully.
• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s an impressive dish that’s sure to please seafood lovers at any gathering.
• Comfort Food: The combination of shrimp and a creamy sauce creates a comforting meal.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole in advance and bake just before serving.
• Healthy Protein: Shrimp is a lean source of protein, making this dish a healthier choice.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy the casserole the next day as it reheats well.
• Satisfying Texture: The crispy topping adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
• Elegant Presentation: Serve it straight from the oven for a beautiful and inviting dish.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 15g, Protein: 25g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:

For the Casserole

• 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped onion
• ½ cup chopped bell pepper (red or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Topping

• ½ cup additional breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Ingredient Highlights

• Large Shrimp: Fresh shrimp provide a sweet and delicate flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Used for the stuffing and topping to add texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the filling.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy and luscious sauce for the casserole.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds freshness and brightness to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:

Prepare the Shrimp

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Make the Filling

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sautéed vegetables with the breadcrumbs, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Prepare the Sauce

1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and additional salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer Shrimp and Filling: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the shrimp in an even layer. Top with the breadcrumb filling, and then arrange the remaining shrimp on top.
2. Add Sauce: Pour the cream sauce evenly over the top of the casserole.

Prepare the Topping

1. Mix Topping Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the additional breadcrumbs with melted butter and stir until well coated.
2. Sprinkle on Top: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the casserole.

Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through and the top is golden brown and crispy.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Serve

1. Garnish: Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot with a fresh salad or crusty bread on the side.

How to Serve

Here are some serving suggestions for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:

• Serve Hot: Enjoy the casserole warm straight from the oven for the best flavor.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for added color and flavor.
• Pair with Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Accompany with Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.
• Drizzle with Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the seafood flavors.
• Use Individual Dishes: For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual ramekins.
• Serve with Rice: A side of rice or quinoa can make the meal more filling.
• Add a Side Veggie: Pair with steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
• Cool and Store: Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick meal later.
• Enjoy Cold: Leftovers are also tasty when served cold as a shrimp salad.

Additional Tips

Maximize your cooking success with these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture; frozen shrimp can also be used, just ensure they are thawed properly.
• Customize the Stuffing: Feel free to add other ingredients like crab meat, scallops, or different spices to the filling.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the filling before assembling and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Make it Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
• Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice.
• Check Shrimp Doneness: Ensure the shrimp are cooked through (opaque and firm) but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
• Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Gently: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, but avoid overcooking.

Recipe Variations

Try these creative variations for your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:

• Seafood Medley: Mix in other seafood like scallops or crab meat for a delightful combination.
• Vegetable Variation: Add diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the stuffing for extra nutrition.
• Spicy Shrimp Casserole: Incorporate diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper into the filling for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Casserole: Mix in some shredded cheese to the filling for an extra creamy texture.
• Curry Flavor: Add curry powder to the filling for an exotic twist on the flavors.
• Creamy Spinach: Fold in some cooked spinach to the stuffing for a pop of color and nutrition.
• Use Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with chicken or a mix of seafood based on your preference.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
• Baked Stuffed Lobster: Use lobster tails instead of shrimp for a luxurious version.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate feta cheese and olives into the filling for a Mediterranean flair.

Freezing and Storage

Keep your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole fresh with these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Thaw Before Baking: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Reheat Carefully: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment

Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the shrimp, filling, and sauce.
• Skillet: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: To bake the casserole in the oven.
• Whisk: For mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: For mixing and spreading the filling evenly.
• Oven Mitts: To safely handle the hot baking dish.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and shrimp.
• Grater: For grating Parmesan cheese if using block cheese.
• Tongs: For handling the shrimp while assembling the casserole.

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions about Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:

• What type of shrimp should I use?
  Large, fresh shrimp are best for this casserole; however, frozen shrimp can work if thawed properly.
• Can I make this casserole in advance?
  Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
• How do I store leftovers?
  Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I substitute ingredients?
  Yes, feel free to customize the filling and sauce based on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
• Is this dish suitable for freezing?
  Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking.
• Can I use other seafood?
  Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with other seafood like crab, scallops, or even chicken.
• How can I make it spicier?
  Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.
• What should I serve it with?
  This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella.
• How do I know when it’s done?
  The casserole is done when the shrimp are cooked through and the top is golden brown and crispy.

Print

Conclusion

Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender shrimp with a flavorful stuffing, all baked in a creamy sauce. This comforting casserole is perfect for special occasions or an everyday meal, making it versatile enough for any dining experience.

With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of succulent shrimp and a rich, creamy filling creates a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. You can customize the stuffing to suit your preferences, adding ingredients like breadcrumbs, herbs, or even a touch of cheese for added richness.

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings the warmth of home cooking to your dining experience. I can’t wait to see how your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations!