Baked Shrimp Casserole

There’s something wonderfully comforting about casseroles. They’re a simple, no-fuss way to combine all the flavors you love into one delicious dish. Today, we’re diving into a creamy, cheesy, and utterly scrumptious Baked Shrimp Casserole that promises to delight your taste buds. This dish is not only flavorful but also relatively easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for families or a fantastic choice for entertaining guests. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the topping:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic. This mixture will infuse the shrimp with a lovely garlicky flavor.
3. Arrange the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the greased baking dish.
4. Cream Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture will form the base of your casserole.
5. Add the Cream Mixture: Pour the prepared cream mixture over the shrimp in the baking dish, ensuring they are well-covered.
6. Cheese Topping: Sprinkle both the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the shrimp and cream mixture.
7. Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the breadcrumbs are well coated. Spread this mixture evenly over the casserole.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a touch of freshness.

Nutrition and Serving

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 410 kcal per serving
• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.

This Baked Shrimp Casserole is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, from the creamy sauce to the crispy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or just want to impress at your next dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your meal with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete dining experience. Happy cooking!