Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal that will impress your family and friends? Then look no further! This baked shrimp casserole recipe is your answer. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elegant weekend meal, offering a delightful blend of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and comforting breadcrumb topping. Get ready to elevate your seafood game with this simple yet spectacular dish!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Essentials
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight dinner.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Cooking Guide
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these steps for perfectly baked shrimp casserole.
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 1.5-quart casserole dish. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your casserole.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, pepper, and paprika. Gently stir until well combined. The creaminess of this sauce is key to the casserole’s deliciousness.
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Add Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the creamy mixture and stir gently to coat them evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the shrimp.
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Assemble & Bake: Pour the shrimp mixture into the prepared casserole dish. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the bread crumbs are golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes serving easier. Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp casserole!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried thyme or oregano to the sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.
- For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Tailor it to Your Taste
This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your perfect version!
- Cheese Lovers: Add shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese to the sauce for extra cheesy goodness.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This baked shrimp casserole recipe is a wonderful example of healthy meals and delicious dishes that are surprisingly easy to make. It’s a great quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!