A hearty and comforting dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices. This casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of textures and rich flavors. With a golden, crispy topping and a creamy, cheesy base, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy – A blend of sour cream, cheese, and mayonnaise creates an ultra-creamy texture.
Perfectly seasoned – Garlic, onion, and paprika add layers of delicious flavor.
Easy to prepare – Simple steps make this an effortless weeknight meal.
Great for gatherings – A satisfying dish that serves multiple people with ease.
Customizable – Easily adapt with different cheeses, seasonings, or seafood.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cooked white rice
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter, melted
½ cup breadcrumbs
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Shrimp:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and fully cooked.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Casserole Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Assemble the Casserole:

Add the cooked rice and cooked shrimp to the mixture, stirring gently to combine.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Prepare the Topping:

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer in the casserole.

Bake:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

Serve:

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 375 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Shrimp Casserole: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Upgrade: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for extra richness.
Vegetable Addition: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Seafood Mix: Try adding crab meat or scallops along with the shrimp for a seafood medley.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating in Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Reheating in Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but note that the topping may lose some crispiness.
Freezing: Freeze the casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

2. What kind of rice works best for this casserole?

White rice is commonly used, but brown rice or even wild rice can work well.

3. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

Make sure not to overbake, and use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise for the best creamy texture.

5. Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a good alternative, but it will have a slightly tangier taste.

6. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can use cream cheese or additional sour cream as a substitute.

7. Can I add pasta instead of rice?

Yes, cooked pasta like penne or elbow macaroni can be used instead of rice.

8. How can I make the topping crispier?

Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to give the breadcrumbs a crunchier texture.

9. Is this casserole gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

10. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but reduce baking time slightly to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Conclusion

Shrimp casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this comforting recipe is sure to impress. With easy customization options, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again!

Shrimp Casserole

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Print Recipe

This Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish packed with juicy shrimp, flavorful spices, and a crispy golden topping. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is rich, satisfying, and full of customizable options. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, it’s sure to be a favorite!

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Instructions