Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole: A Delicious, Crowd-Pleasing Seafood Dish
If you love shrimp and crave a dish with bold flavors and an irresistible crispy topping, then this Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is for you. This easy-to-make casserole combines succulent shrimp with a buttery, garlicky breadcrumb topping, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the perfect dish for a special dinner, holiday meal, or even a weeknight treat when you want something indulgent yet simple to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just about 30 minutes.
- Bursting with Flavor – A delightful mix of garlic, lemon, Parmesan, and fresh herbs.
- Perfect for Entertaining – An impressive dish that requires minimal effort.
- Versatile – Can be customized with different breadcrumbs, cheeses, or added seafood.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Stuffing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is moist and crumbly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the shrimp, pressing gently to adhere. Ensure the shrimp are fully covered with the flavorful topping.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot and enjoy this seafood delight!
Pro Tips and Variations
- Use Jumbo Shrimp – If available, jumbo shrimp work beautifully for this dish.
- Add Crab Meat – Mixing in some lump crab meat enhances the seafood flavor and adds richness.
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Cheese Swap – Try using Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What should I serve with Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light pasta dish like lemon butter spaghetti.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While shrimp dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Fresh, wild-caught shrimp have the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure they are fully thawed before using.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is the ultimate seafood comfort dish. With its rich, buttery topping and tender shrimp, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or a simple dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen!