Description
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar and Mozzarella is a quick and delicious seafood dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Tender shrimp are lightly seasoned, combined with creamy mayonnaise and garlic powder, then mixed with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Topped with a golden, crispy panko breadcrumb crust, this casserole bakes to perfection in just 30 minutes, offering a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 2 lbs large shrimp
- 1 Tbsp Old Bay Seasoning (plus 1 Tbsp salt for the cooking water)
Sauce and Cheese
- 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
Topping and Preparation
- 1 Tbsp butter (plus more to grease the pan)
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish or skillet with butter to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of Old Bay Seasoning to the water. Add the shrimp and cook for about 30 seconds until they turn opaque and are cooked through. Immediately drain and transfer the shrimp to a large bowl. Let them cool for a few minutes, then remove excess liquid by draining or blotting with paper towels.
- Mix Shrimp with Seasoning and Cheese: Add mayonnaise, garlic powder, and ground black pepper to the cooled shrimp. Stir gently to coat all pieces evenly. Then sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses and combine carefully. Transfer this mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- Prepare the Topping: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small bowl. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until all are moistened with butter. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp mixture in the casserole dish.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the casserole uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 13 to 15 minutes until the center reaches 145°F (63°C) using an instant-read thermometer. Then switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 1 to 2 minutes to brown and crisp the breadcrumb topping.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it convenient for gatherings or potlucks.
Notes
- The shrimp cook very quickly; be careful not to overcook during boiling to maintain tenderness.
- Using freshly shredded cheese will melt better and improve the dish’s texture.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Ensure to broil only for a short time to avoid burning the breadcrumb topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Shrimp casserole, cheesy shrimp bake, seafood casserole, shrimp and cheese recipe, quick shrimp casserole
