There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked seafood wafting through your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy seaside cottage. Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, cheesy Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, where tender shrimp meets a delectable blend of spices and textures. Every bite promises to whisk you away to sun-soaked shores, even if you’re just in your living room with a Netflix marathon lined up.
Now, let me take you back to that one family gathering when my uncle thought he could outshine my culinary skills with his infamous shrimp dish. Spoiler alert: he failed miserably. But that day inspired me to create this masterpiece—a Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole that not only won hearts but also ensured my uncle has never dared to compete again. Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just treating yourself after a long week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, your taste buds will throw a party in celebration.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is easier to prepare than you might think; you can impress guests without breaking a sweat.
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory shrimp and creamy goodness that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Visually, it’s an Instagram-worthy dish with its colorful ingredients and golden top layer.
- It’s versatile enough to be served as an impressive main course or as cozy comfort food on a chilly evening.
Ingredients for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Shrimp: Use about 1 pound of raw shrimp; make sure they are peeled and deveined for the best flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: A cup of seasoned breadcrumbs adds crunch and texture; choose whole wheat for added nutrition.
- Cream Cheese: About 8 ounces will give the casserole its creamy consistency; let it soften for easy mixing.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for that nutty flavor; around half a cup works wonders here.
- Garlic Powder: A teaspoon enhances the overall flavor profile; use fresh garlic if you prefer more intensity.
For the Sauce:
- Butter: About two tablespoons melted butter adds richness to the casserole; opt for unsalted to control seasoning.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; about two tablespoons should do the trick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks—because nobody likes playing hide-and-seek with their food.
Step 2: Prep Your Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine your cleaned shrimp with garlic powder and half of your Parmesan cheese. Mix it up until every little shrimp is well-coated. Garlic Parmesan Chicken You want them feeling fancy before they hit that casserole.
Step 3: Make The Creamy Filling
In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese, butter, and lemon juice until well combined. This mixture should be thick yet spreadable—think of it as fluffy clouds ready to blanket those beautiful shrimp.
Step 4: Assemble The Casserole
Spread the shrimp mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then dollop spoonfuls of the creamy filling on top of the shrimp and spread it gently across the surface like frosting on a cake (but much tastier).
Step 5: Bake It Up
Pop that casserole into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell like heaven by now—you might even have neighbors knocking at your door!
Step 6: Serve It Hot
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Trust me; that first bite will make all your efforts worthwhile—just don’t burn your mouth trying to dive in too quickly! Quick Chicken Stir Fry.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining melted butter or lemon juice for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you go! Your very own Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole ready to dazzle both taste buds and dinner guests alike!
You Must Know
- Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that combines flavors of the sea with creamy goodness.
- This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
- Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a weeknight favorite for busy cooks!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the shrimp filling. Sauté garlic and onion in butter until fragrant, then mix with breadcrumbs and spices before folding in the shrimp. Layer this mixture into a baking dish, cover with cheese, and bake to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in crab meat for shrimp if you want a different seafood vibe. Add some diced bell peppers for extra crunch or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. You can even experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crispy topping intact!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, make sure your shrimp are fresh and not overcooked during preparation.
- A dash of lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully.
- Lastly, let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your tongue on molten cheese!
Sometimes, when I whip up this Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, I can still hear my aunt’s laughter from our family gatherings as she devoured seconds—her way of saying she loved it!
FAQs:
What is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delicious seafood dish that combines tender shrimp with a flavorful stuffing, usually made of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. The casserole is topped with cheese and baked until golden brown. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions and showcases the flavors of the sea in a comforting format.
How do you make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
To make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, start by preheating your oven. Prepare the stuffing by mixing breadcrumbs with sautéed onions, garlic, and seasonings. Clean the shrimp and stuff them with the mixture. Arrange the stuffed shrimp in a baking dish, top with cheese or seasoning, then bake until bubbly. The cooking time typically varies between 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole. Just ensure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before stuffing. Using frozen shrimp can save time and still yield a flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy.
What sides pair well with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for a light contrast or garlic bread for added flavor. Steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also complement the casserole beautifully, enhancing its seafood flavors while adding nutrients. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
Conclusion for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole:
In summary, Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is an easy yet impressive dish that brings together succulent shrimp and savory stuffing in one delightful meal. This recipe suits various occasions and allows for customization based on personal preferences. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or during a festive gathering, this casserole promises satisfaction for seafood lovers and will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy creating this delectable dish! For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe recipe.
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful seafood dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy, cheesy filling, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home, this easy-to-make casserole is bursting with flavor and will transport you to sun-soaked shores. Impress your guests and treat yourself to a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with garlic powder and half of the Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.
- In another bowl, blend cream cheese, breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Spread the shrimp mixture in the baking dish and dollop the creamy filling on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving; drizzle with additional melted butter or lemon juice if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, sauté garlic and onion in butter before mixing with breadcrumbs. Substitute crab meat for shrimp for a different seafood experience. Add diced bell peppers or crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.