Delicious Shrimp Casserole for Every Occasion

Whenever I whip up my delicious shrimp casserole, it’s like a little culinary celebration in my kitchen. The key is selecting fresh, large shrimp—about a pound should do. Preparing them is a breeze, though peeling can be a bit of a slippery task, but it’s all part of the fun! Once you mix those beauties with a creamy, cheesy base, topped with buttery breadcrumbs, you’re in for a treat. Curious about the perfect cheese blend?

The Perfect Shrimp Selection

Ah, shrimp—the star of our casserole and the key to a dish that’s both satisfying and delightful!

I always choose large shrimp, around 21 to 24 count per pound, for their plump and juicy bite. Two pounds is just the right amount to guarantee everyone gets their fill.

If you’re like me and love quality, fresh shrimp is best, but frozen works in a pinch. Just make certain they’re peeled and deveined—nobody wants to wrestle with shells at dinner!

Ever tried cooking with smaller shrimp? Trust me, they can get lost in the mix, so bigger is better here.

Preparing the Shrimp for Casserole

Let’s get those shrimp ready for our delicious casserole!

We’ll start with two pounds of large shrimp—21 to 24 count is perfect.

First, peel and devein those little sea jewels. I like to imagine I’m a treasure hunter, uncovering hidden gems!

Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt and a dash of Old Bay seasoning for that extra flavor kick.

Cook the shrimp for only 30 seconds; we don’t want them rubbery!

Once done, drain and pat them dry. This prevents any unwanted liquid.

Voilà, shrimp are ready to shine!

Assembling the Casserole

Now that our shrimp are prepped to perfection, it’s time to assemble our mouthwatering casserole.

I start by generously buttering a two-quart casserole dish, ensuring every corner is covered. Mixing real mayo with garlic powder and black pepper, I coat the shrimp, making them irresistible.

Adding medium cheddar and mozzarella transforms it into a cheesy dream. I evenly spread this mixture into the dish, setting the stage for even cooking.

For a little crunch, I melt butter and lovingly combine it with panko breadcrumbs. Voilà, our casserole is assembled! It’s a blend of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Baking and Finishing Touches

Once the casserole is assembled, it’s time to let the oven work its magic. I pop it into a preheated 375°F oven, feeling that comforting warmth fill the kitchen.

As it bakes, the cheeses melt into gooey perfection, while the shrimp reach their tender peak at 145°F.

Here’s a quick tip:

• Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to verify perfect doneness.
• Broil the dish for two minutes to achieve that irresistible golden, crispy topping.
• Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to lock in flavors.
• Enjoy the enticing aroma wafting through your home!

Savoring the Final Dish

As I pull the shrimp casserole from the oven, the kitchen fills with a heavenly aroma that instantly transports me back to family gatherings.

The golden, crispy topping crackles invitingly, making my mouth water. I can’t wait to dig in!

The first bite is a creamy, cheesy delight, with just the right balance of tender shrimp and buttery breadcrumbs. It’s like a warm hug on a plate.

If you’re out of panko, try crushed Ritz crackers for a similar crunch.