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Creamy Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Creamy Shrimp Casserole Recipe: 5 Steps to Perfection

Experience restaurant-quality comfort food without the hassle. This Creamy Shrimp Casserole combines tender shrimp, a luxurious cheesy sauce, and a crispy golden topping—all ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive enough for guests, this five-step recipe delivers creamy, dreamy perfection every single time.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 ½ lbs large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (21-25 count)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cups cooked rice or pasta
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Topping:

 

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Preheat Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. If using uncooked rice or pasta, prepare it according to package directions and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Use a hand mixer or whisk vigorously until completely smooth and lump-free. Fold in the mozzarella and ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Everything Add the cooked rice (or pasta) to the cream sauce and stir to coat. Gently fold in the raw shrimp and frozen peas until everything is evenly distributed. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 4: Add the Topping In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling, the topping is golden brown, and the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

 

  • Shrimp: Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked, to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
  • Cream Cheese: Must be fully softened for a smooth sauce. Microwave for 15-20 seconds if needed.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping) up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
  • Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or swap peas for spinach or asparagus. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set for perfect serving.