Name: Quick Shrimp Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 cup diced bell peppers; 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Golden, cheesy, and bursting with tender shrimp, this Quick Shrimp Casserole is the comfort food you didn’t know you needed. It’s the perfect blend of creamy goodness and savory seafood flavors, all topped with a crispy, buttery breadcrumb crust that provides the perfect crunch with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea or an impressive dish for guests, this casserole delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.

The beauty of this Quick Shrimp Casserole is how effortlessly it comes together. In under an hour, you can have a bubbling hot dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s hearty enough to stand alone yet versatile enough to pair beautifully with your favorite sides. Plus, the luxurious texture and cheesy finish will make it an instant favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Shrimp Casserole

Speedy and Easy: From prep to plate in less than 45 minutes.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser even for picky eaters.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and crispy in every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble it early and bake when ready.
Customizable: Add veggies, extra cheese, or swap shrimp for other seafood.
Minimal Cleanup: One bowl and one baking dish make life easier.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and customizable to be lower-carb if needed.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Quick Shrimp Casserole

Before diving into the deliciousness, setting up your kitchen with the right tools will make the process a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item is essential:

Large Mixing Bowl: Crucial for combining all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
Medium Saucepan: Needed to gently pre-cook any ingredients like pasta or to melt butter for the sauce.
Whisk: Helps in creating a smooth, lump-free cheese or cream sauce.
Baking Dish (9×13-inch): The perfect size for spreading the casserole evenly to get that golden crust.
Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping every bit of cheesy goodness out of your bowl into the baking dish.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy ensures your casserole isn’t too dry or too runny.
Aluminum Foil: Useful if you need to cover the casserole halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
Oven Mitts: Non-negotiable for safely removing the hot dish from the oven.

Each tool plays a specific role in making sure your casserole cooks evenly, tastes incredible, and looks mouthwateringly perfect.

Preparation Tips

Pre-cook the shrimp slightly: If using raw shrimp, sauté them for just a minute or two until they turn pink — they’ll finish cooking in the oven without becoming rubbery.
Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent a smooth, creamy melt.
Dry your shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels before mixing them into the casserole to avoid excess water that can make the dish soggy.
Layer smartly: Distribute the shrimp evenly across the dish to ensure each serving is packed with seafood.
Season at every stage: Light seasoning of shrimp, sauce, and topping layers makes the flavor pop beautifully.
Breadcrumb Tip: Toss breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling for that golden, irresistible crust.

Ingredients for This Quick Shrimp Casserole

Gather these easy-to-find ingredients to create a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor:

1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large size)
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells work best)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for a stronger flavor)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream (for ultimate creaminess)
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika (adds a hint of smoky flavor)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

1/2 cup diced bell peppers (for color and crunch)
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (adds earthiness)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (for a bright, citrusy note)

Having all your ingredients ready before you start makes the cooking process super smooth and stress-free!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will release easily when serving.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until just al dente (it will cook a bit more in the oven). Drain it and set aside. Avoid overcooking, as mushy pasta can ruin the casserole’s texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add the shrimp and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side — just until they start turning pink. Remove them from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to wash it!), melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and stir until it thickens (about 3–5 minutes).

Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out smoothly.

Top with shredded cheddar cheese and then sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly across the top.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil midway through baking.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch.

Then, dig in and enjoy your luscious, cheesy Quick Shrimp Casserole!

Notes

Shrimp Size: Medium to large shrimp are ideal for this dish because they stay juicy and flavorful during baking.
Customize the Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the cream sauce for extra depth.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, don’t hesitate to add a pinch more red pepper flakes.
Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-fat milk for a lighter casserole without losing creaminess.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs if needed; the sauce can also be thickened with gluten-free flour.
Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas to add a healthy, colorful twist.
Extra Cheesy: Feel free to add more cheese on top before baking for a super decadent crust.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook extremely fast — just a few minutes! Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough.
Not Thickening the Sauce Properly: If your cream sauce is too runny before baking, the casserole will be watery. Make sure the sauce is thick and creamy before combining it with the pasta.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always grate your own cheese for the best texture.
Skipping Pasta Drainage: Ensure the pasta is well-drained. Excess water can make the casserole soggy.
Not Seasoning Layers: Seasoning only at the end can leave the dish tasting bland. Lightly season the shrimp, pasta, and sauce individually.
Crowding the Pan: Spread the casserole mixture evenly in the baking dish. Crowded layers won’t bake uniformly.
Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out the casserole. Pull it from the oven as soon as it’s golden and bubbly.
Forgetting to Rest After Baking: Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes helps it firm up for cleaner slices and better flavor integration.

What to Serve With Quick Shrimp Casserole

A rich and creamy casserole like this one pairs beautifully with lighter, vibrant sides that bring balance to the meal. Here’s what complements it best:

8 Recommendations

1. Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness.

2. Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is a comforting, irresistible side to mop up any leftover creamy sauce from the casserole plate.

3. Steamed Asparagus

Lightly steamed asparagus spears drizzled with a bit of lemon juice offer a fresh and slightly tangy counterpoint to the cheesy casserole.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers seasoned with herbs create a colorful and healthy side option.

5. Coleslaw

A tangy, crunchy coleslaw (especially one with a vinegar-based dressing) offers a refreshing crunch and a hint of acidity.

6. Sautéed Spinach

Quickly sautéed spinach with a touch of garlic and olive oil is a nutrient-rich, simple dish that complements the casserole beautifully.

7. Lemon Rice

Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest and herbs brings a light, citrusy flavor that balances the creamy casserole.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, slightly charred corn on the cob brushed with butter provides a summery, vibrant side that everyone loves.

Storage Instructions

Keeping your Quick Shrimp Casserole fresh and delicious is easy with these simple storage tips:

Refrigerator: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the casserole into individual servings and place them in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
Reheating: Reheat refrigerated portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge first, then reheat as usual. You can also microwave small portions, but the oven helps retain the crispy topping.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to help bring back that creamy texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings total):

Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 215mg
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 750mg

Note: Nutrition will vary based on the specific brands and optional add-ins you use, such as extra vegetables or different types of cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery.

2. Can I make Quick Shrimp Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter, yet still creamy, alternative.

4. How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?

Cook them briefly before adding to the casserole, and avoid overbaking the dish. Remember: shrimp cook quickly!

5. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Bell peppers, peas, spinach, or even small broccoli florets mix in perfectly without overpowering the shrimp.

6. How spicy is this casserole?

It’s mildly spiced, but you can easily adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the crushed red pepper flakes.

7. What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar brings a nice bold flavor, but you can also mix in mozzarella for extra meltiness or Monterey Jack for a milder touch.

8. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The top should be golden brown and the sauce bubbling at the edges. Usually, it takes about 20–25 minutes at 375°F.

Conclusion

The Quick Shrimp Casserole is everything you need when craving comfort food with a seafood twist — it’s creamy, cheesy, satisfying, and impressively easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of prep, you can deliver a dish that’s hearty enough for family dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining. Plus, with all the tips, variations, and serving ideas, you can easily make this casserole your own. Get ready to watch it disappear from the table — it’s truly a crowd-pleaser!