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Shrimp Casserole

Shrimp Casserole

A quick and easy seafood casserole featuring tender shrimp baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this crowd-pleasing dish is ready in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Calories: 352

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count) peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
For the Filling
  • 2/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
For the Topping
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted, plus more for greasing
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling
  • 9x13 inch casserole dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Generously butter a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
  2. Fill a large pot with water. Add 1 tablespoon salt and 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  3. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until shrimp turn pink and opaque throughout. Drain in a colander and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until seasonings are evenly distributed.
  5. Add the cooled shrimp, shredded mozzarella, and shredded cheddar to the bowl. Fold gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and combined.
  6. Spread the shrimp mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  7. In a small bowl, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toss until evenly coated.
  8. Sprinkle the buttered panko mixture evenly over the shrimp, covering the entire surface.
  9. Bake for 15 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges.
  10. Optional: For extra-crispy topping, switch oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy hot!

Notes

  • Don't overcook the shrimp during boiling - they'll cook more in the oven. Slightly undercooking them prevents rubbery texture.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can make the filling grainy.
  • Let shrimp cool a few minutes before mixing with mayo to prevent separation.
  • Can be assembled up to 3 days ahead - refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Frozen shrimp work great - just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
  • For extra flavor, add fresh herbs, lemon juice, or hot sauce to the filling.
  • Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 325°F until warmed through.