Name: Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs large shrimp; 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning (plus 1 Tbsp salt for the cooking water); 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese; 1 Tbsp butter (plus more to grease the pan); 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

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Introduction

This Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella is a creamy, cheesy seafood dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a potluck favorite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines tender shrimp with a crispy breadcrumb topping for a deliciously comforting dinner.

A close-up of a black skillet filled with golden-brown baked shrimp topped with crispy breadcrumbs and finely chopped green herbs. The dish has a creamy, cheesy layer beneath the shrimp, visible by melted cheese strings stretching as a wooden spoon lifts one shrimp from the skillet. The shrimp are plump and lightly browned, sitting on a thick white creamy sauce with a crunchy golden top layer of breadcrumbs and herbs. The skillet is set on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs large shrimp
1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning (plus 1 Tbsp salt for the cooking water)

2/3 cup mayonnaise
1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp ground black pepper
4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

4 oz shredded medium cheddar cheese
1 Tbsp butter (plus more to grease the pan)
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish or skillet with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of Old Bay Seasoning to the boiling water. Add the shrimp and cook for about 30 seconds or just until they turn opaque and are cooked through. Immediately strain the shrimp and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Allow to cool for a few minutes, then drain off any excess liquid by pouring it out or blotting with a paper towel.
Step 3: To the shrimp, add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to coat all the shrimp evenly. Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses onto the shrimp and stir gently until combined. Transfer this mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.

Step 4: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate bowl or measuring cup. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are evenly moistened with butter. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp in the casserole dish.
Step 5: Bake the casserole uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Then switch your oven setting to broil and broil for 1 to 2 minutes to brown the breadcrumb topping, creating a crispy golden crust.
Step 6: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving. The dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without losing creaminess.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture for a subtle spicy kick.
Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of panko for a different texture in the topping.

Swap mozzarella or cheddar with your favorite cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for new flavor twists.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain the crispy breadcrumb topping. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the crust.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baked shrimp dish in a dark baking tray on a white marbled surface, showing creamy white sauce mixed with orange shrimp pieces as the bottom layer, topped by a golden brown, crispy breadcrumb layer sprinkled with green parsley bits as the top layer, with a wooden spoon lifting a portion to reveal the creamy shrimp underneath, the texture of the breadcrumbs crunchy and lightly browned. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. This casserole holds up well and can be prepared ahead of time. Refrigerate it unbaked and bake fresh when ready to serve for best texture and flavor.