If there is one dinner that always saves me on busy nights, it is this shrimp casserole recipe. It is creamy, cozy, and comes together without a lot of fuss. I started making this when I wanted something comforting but still felt a little special. Shrimp does that for me every time. This dish has become a regular at our table, especially when I need dinner to feel warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
This shrimp casserole is perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or even a casual holiday meal. It is rich without being heavy, simple without being boring, and it reheats like a dream.
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Shrimp Casserole Recipe
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for any occasion, Shrimp Casserole combines tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices into one satisfying bake. I love serving this when I want something easy that still feels like a real sit-down dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ cup breadcrumbs, for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped, optional for garnish
Instructions
Prepare The Shrimp
Cook The Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside. Try not to overcook them here since they will bake again in the oven.
Make The Casserole Mixture
Mix The Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add The Rice And Cheese:
Fold in the cooked rice and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well coated and creamy.
Assemble The Casserole
Combine Shrimp With Rice Mixture:
Gently stir the cooked shrimp into the rice and cheese mixture, making sure the shrimp is evenly spread throughout.
Transfer To Baking Dish:
Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and spread the shrimp mixture evenly inside.
Top And Bake
Prepare The Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350 F. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Nutrition
Calories: 350 to 400 kcal
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Notes And Variations
- You can swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack or a cheese blend if that is what you have on hand.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days and reheat best in the oven.
FAQs
Yes, just make sure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
You can assemble it a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
A green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread all work really well.
📖 Recipe
Shrimp Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and creamy Shrimp Casserole loaded with juicy shrimp, melty cheddar, and savory spices — the ultimate comforting dish for any family dinner or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the shrimp over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set aside
- In a large bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix
- Add in cooked rice and shredded cheddar cheese; stir until evenly mixed
- Gently fold in the cooked shrimp until evenly distributed
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the shrimp and rice mixture into it evenly
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the casserole
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling
- Let cool slightly, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve
Notes
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or warm crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal. Leftovers store well for up to 3 days.
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Final Thoughts
This shrimp casserole recipe is one of those dishes I come back to again and again. It is comforting, easy, and always a hit at the table. If you give it a try, I would love to hear how it turned out for you.
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