Baked Shrimp Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This casserole combines succulent shrimp with a creamy sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, and topped with a delightful mix of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until they are pink and slightly opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Create the Base: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
- Season the Sauce: Add the dried thyme, paprika, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the shrimp and sauce mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping
- Grate the Cheeses: In a small bowl, combine the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
- Sprinkle the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the cheese mixture over the top of the shrimp and sauce in the baking dish.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Serve: Serve the baked shrimp casserole hot, with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Success
- Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: You can use fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Even Cooking: When sautéing the shrimp, be careful not to overcook them as they will continue to cook in the oven. Cook just until they are pink and slightly opaque.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water to the sauce before baking.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere or fontina would be excellent alternatives to cheddar and Parmesan.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
Baked Shrimp Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s sure to please seafood lovers. The combination of creamy, garlicky sauce and the rich flavors of cheddar and Parmesan create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and versatile in its accompaniments, this casserole will undoubtedly become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and the ease of preparation, and savor every bite of this delicious casserole.