If you love seafood dishes that are creamy, comforting, and topped with a golden crunchy crust, you are absolutely going to adore this Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of juicy shrimp enveloped in a luscious, garlicky mayo-cheese blend, all baked under a delightfully crisp layer of buttery panko crumbs and melted cheeses. Every forkful delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors that make it a standout at any dinner table, whether for a family night or a special gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe uses a handful of simple but essential ingredients that work together to create its uniquely rich and crispy character. Each component brings something irreplaceable to the dish—fresh shrimp for that briny sweetness, Old Bay seasoning for a zesty punch, and a duo of cheeses plus panko breadcrumbs for an irresistible topping.
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21-24 count), peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning: Adds that classic seafood spice blend that really wakes up the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water: Ensures the shrimp are perfectly seasoned as they poach.
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, rich base that binds everything together beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle aromatic depth to the mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Lends a mild, warming kick without overpowering the seafood.
- 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan: Provides richness and helps the topping brown to perfection.
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Gives the casserole its signature light, crispy texture on top.
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a smooth, gooey layer adding stretch and creaminess.
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, savory flavor that balances the mild mozzarella.
How to Make Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough for the shrimp casserole to bake evenly and the panko topping to crisp up nicely. Lightly grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish with butter to prevent any sticking and to add subtle buttery flavor to the edges.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a tablespoon of salt and the Old Bay seasoning to infuse the shrimp with that signature seafood spice even as it cooks. Then, add your peeled and deveined shrimp and blanch them until they turn opaque, which only takes about 30 seconds. This quick cooking keeps them juicy and tender—overcooking would make them rubbery. Drain the shrimp carefully to avoid losing any flavorful juices.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the cooked shrimp to a mixing bowl and toss them with mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. This creamy mixture enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness while adding a gentle garlicky heat. Next, fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, which provide that irresistible gooeyness and sharpness. Once everything is evenly combined, transfer the luscious mixture to your prepared casserole dish.
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Panko Topping
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the tablespoon of butter until it’s golden and fragrant. Stir in the panko bread crumbs until they are evenly coated with butter—this step is key to getting that perfectly crunchy, golden topping that defines this Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe. Sprinkle the buttery panko mixture evenly over your shrimp and cheese filling.
Step 5: Bake and Broil to Finish
Bake your casserole uncovered for about 13 to 15 minutes, or until the center reaches a safe 145°F, ensuring the shrimp are perfectly cooked throughout. For that irresistible golden-brown finish on top, switch your oven to broil and toast the panko crumbs for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close watch so the topping doesn’t burn. Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes—this helps the flavors settle and the dish firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
How to Serve Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes can elevate your shrimp casserole visually and flavor-wise. Chopped fresh parsley or chives add a beautiful pop of green and fresh herbal brightness that balances the rich cheese and buttery breadcrumbs perfectly. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to cut through the richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or even roasted asparagus works beautifully. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic rice complement the cheesy shrimp casserole wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this recipe in individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party presentation. You could also layer the shrimp casserole over cooked pasta or rice to turn it into a one-dish meal. Alternatively, spoon the casserole onto toasted baguette slices as warm, indulgent appetizers that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Covering it well helps keep that crispy panko topping a bit more intact when reheated and ensures the creamy shrimp mixture stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole by letting it cool completely and then covering it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place your casserole in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. If you want to restore the crunchy topping, broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. This method helps regain that fresh-from-the-oven texture and flavor without drying out the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole soggy.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt or a mix of sour cream and a little olive oil can work well, though it will slightly change the flavor and texture.
Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?
While Old Bay adds that classic seafood flavor, you can substitute with a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne to mimic the seasoning profile.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping to keep that crispy crunch without gluten.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe has a mild, aromatic spice level thanks to the Old Bay seasoning and black pepper. If you like a little more heat, adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes would be an easy tweak.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe is a gem that never fails to impress with its creamy, cheesy, crunchy layers and perfectly cooked shrimp. It’s a delightful comfort food that feels both homey and a bit special, making it perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite on your dinner rotation!
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Shrimp Casserole with Cheesy Panko Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, cheesy seafood dish perfect for a comforting family meal. It combines tender, seasoned shrimp with mayonnaise, spices, shredded cheeses, and a buttery panko breadcrumb topping baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 2 pounds large shrimp (21–24 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, plus 1 tablespoon salt for cooking water
Mixture
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded medium cheddar cheese
Topping and Preparation
- 1 tablespoon butter, plus more to grease the pan
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2 1/2 quart casserole dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook shrimp: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning into the water for flavor. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for about 30 seconds or until they turn opaque. Quickly drain the shrimp and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
- Combine ingredients: To the shrimp, add 2/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Stir well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated. Then, fold in the 4 ounces of shredded mozzarella and 4 ounces of shredded medium cheddar cheeses, mixing gently but thoroughly. Transfer this shrimp mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Make topping: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a small pan or microwave. Stir in 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs until they are evenly coated with the butter. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp casserole.
- Bake and finish: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 13-15 minutes, or until the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. For a beautifully browned topping, switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and cool to a safe eating temperature.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp in boiling water; they cook quickly and become rubbery if boiled too long.
- Resting the casserole after baking improves texture and flavor.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor results.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a crunchier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Can be served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
