Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is the perfect dish for transforming any dinner into a memorable event. With tender shrimp surrounded by a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs and cheese, this casserole offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether it’s a cozy family meal or an elegant gathering with friends, this dish fits perfectly on any table. Its simplicity in preparation makes it accessible for home cooks, while its rich flavors give it that luxurious restaurant touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a quick choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of shrimp, herbs, and spices creates a delicious flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday dinner or a casual family night, this casserole suits various events beautifully.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden crust and colorful toppings make this dish visually appealing, elevating your dining experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: This is essential for holding your casserole as it bakes to perfection.
- Mixing bowl: Use this to combine your ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best results in your recipe.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Casserole Base
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Stuffing Mixture
- 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 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Place the seasoned shrimp in an even layer at the bottom of your baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Stuffing Mixture
- In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, and paprika.
- Season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the shrimp in the baking dish. Ensure every shrimp is covered with that delightful topping.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole!
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this sumptuous shrimp casserole.
With Fresh Lemon Wedges
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrusy flavor that brightens each bite.
Over a Bed of Greens
- Plate the casserole over fresh greens like arugula or spinach for a refreshing contrast and added nutrients.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Pair your casserole with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices and add some extra crunch.
Topped with Extra Parmesan
- Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of savory goodness.
With a Side Salad
- A light, crisp salad makes a perfect complement, balancing the richness of the casserole with fresh vegetables and vinaigrette.
How to Perfect Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
To ensure your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. Look for shrimp that smells clean and has a firm texture.
- Opt for Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a delightful crunch.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; they will continue cooking in the oven. This helps keep them tender and juicy.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This lets flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that work well together.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and complements the flavors of the casserole beautifully.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic provide heartiness that pairs well with shrimp.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the casserole.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs is a perfect base that absorbs any leftover sauce from your casserole.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds color and sweetness, making it a fun addition to any meal.
- Mixed Vegetable Medley: A mix of sautéed seasonal vegetables adds color, nutrients, and freshness to your dinner table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the shrimp and breadcrumbs can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them rubbery. Aim for just a few minutes in the oven until they are pink and opaque.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Old or stale breadcrumbs won’t provide the best texture. Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat to the specified temperature before baking.
- Neglecting presentation: A beautiful casserole is more appetizing. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving for an appealing look.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for the best flavor and quality.
Freezing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil if it browns too quickly.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, checking frequently, until warm. This method may not maintain crispiness.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on low, stirring gently, until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole special?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole combines tender shrimp with flavorful breadcrumbs, offering a delightful mix of textures that elevate any meal.
Can I customize this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I ensure my shrimp remain juicy?
To keep your shrimp tender, avoid overcooking them during baking. They only need a few minutes to cook through.
Is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole suitable for special occasions?
Yes, it’s perfect for gatherings! Its elegant presentation and delicious taste make it a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. With its simple preparation and room for customization, you can make it uniquely yours. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe!
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that transforms ordinary dinners into extraordinary feasts. This easy-to-make casserole features succulent shrimp enveloped in a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, creating an exquisite balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for both casual family meals and elegant gatherings, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers impressive presentation with its golden crust and colorful toppings. Serve it with lemon wedges for a zesty kick or alongside a fresh salad to elevate your dining experience.
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 the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl; layer them in a baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the stuffing mixture over the shrimp evenly.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
