Description
This delicious shrimp casserole combines succulent shrimp, creamy cheeses, and hearty rice, baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. A savory blend of herbs and spices, tender vegetables, and a creamy sauce makes this dish a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish using butter or nonstick spray to ensure the casserole does not stick and bakes evenly.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and diced celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they are softened and fragrant, which will build the base flavor for the casserole.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
- Mix Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, heavy cream, sour cream, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and oregano. Thoroughly stir to create a creamy and flavorful base.
- Combine Shrimp and Vegetables: Add the sautéed shrimp and vegetables into the cheese and rice mixture. Stir gently to evenly distribute all the ingredients throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top to add a crunchy texture once baked.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top has turned a golden brown color, signaling that it is fully heated and nicely crisped.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting and hearty shrimp casserole.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter dish, but the casserole will be less rich.
- If breadcrumbs are not desired, you can omit them or substitute with crushed crackers or omit the crunchy topping entirely.
- For best flavor, use freshly peeled and deveined shrimp rather than pre-cooked shrimp.
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain texture.
