Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that transforms ordinary dinners into memorable meals. With its tender shrimp enveloped in a buttery, herbaceous breadcrumb mixture topped with a crispy finish, this casserole is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or an elegant dinner party, this recipe offers a touch of sophistication without the fuss. It’s quick to prepare and brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Flavorful & Rich: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole fits right in.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or substituting shrimp with other seafood options.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing presentation and delicious taste, this casserole is sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make preparing your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Essential for holding all ingredients together while ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly for better flavor distribution.
- Knife: Crucial for chopping herbs and vegetables efficiently.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting ingredients without damaging countertops.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- 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
Flavor Enhancers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and develops that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Set aside while you prepare the topping.
Step 3: Make the Topping Mixture
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, chopped parsley, green onions, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the seasoned shrimp evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing. Enjoy your Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole!
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
For a Family Dinner
- Serve with Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty brightness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Garnish with Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.
As Part of a Buffet
- Include a Salad Bar: Offer a variety of greens and dressings for guests to create their own salads alongside the casserole.
- Pair with Bread Rolls: Soft, warm bread rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce or butter from the casserole.
For Special Occasions
- Accompany with Champagne: A glass of bubbly brings a touch of elegance, making your meal feel even more special.
- Serve in Individual Portions: Use small ramekins to serve individual portions, adding a personal touch to your presentation.
Casual Gatherings
- Offer Finger Foods: Complement the casserole with easy-to-eat appetizers like shrimp cocktail or bruschetta for a relaxed vibe.
- Add Veggie Sticks and Dip: Provide fresh vegetables and a tasty dip as a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
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 will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and drained.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. Overcooking can lead to tough shrimp; aim for just tender.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh thyme or dill along with parsley for additional layers of flavor in your stuffing.
- Adjust Breadcrumbs for Texture: Depending on your preference, feel free to mix panko with regular breadcrumbs for varying crunchiness in each bite.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that balances out the dish’s richness.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and a pop of color, making it an elegant addition to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing gives a crunchy contrast that works well with the casserole’s textures.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offers both flavor and nutrition alongside your main dish.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf garnished with almonds provides a nutty taste that complements the flavors of the shrimp casserole nicely.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the baked shrimp dish for balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the deveining step: Not deveining shrimp can lead to a gritty texture. Always ensure your shrimp are properly cleaned before cooking.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough. Remember, shrimp cook quickly; aim for just until they turn pink.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Stale breadcrumbs won’t provide the desired crunch. Check your pantry and use fresh breadcrumbs for best results.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings as needed.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole right out of the oven can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a comforting dish featuring shrimp baked with a flavorful stuffing of breadcrumbs and herbs topped with cheese.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just make sure they are thawed and patted dry before use in your casserole.
How do I customize Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
You can add ingredients like crab meat, different cheeses, or vegetables like bell peppers and spinach to enhance flavor and nutrition.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is not only an indulgent dish but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for special occasions or simple family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seafood or vegetables to make it uniquely yours!
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is a delectable dish that transforms any meal into a gourmet experience. Featuring plump shrimp coated in a rich, buttery breadcrumb mixture, this casserole is topped to perfection with a crispy finish that will leave your guests raving. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners and elegant gatherings alike, offering both flavor and presentation without requiring extensive cooking skills. With fresh herbs and a hint of lemon, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food while delivering delightful restaurant-quality taste right from your oven.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the seasoned shrimp in a baking dish and top evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
