Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole with Garlic-Parmesan Crust 🦐🧀
Dive into a seafood lover’s dream with this Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole with Garlic-Parmesan Crust! This elegant yet easy dish features plump, juicy shrimp nestled under a golden, crispy topping of buttery breadcrumbs, nutty Parmesan, and zesty garlic. Infused with the bright flavors of lemon and fresh parsley, plus a kick of Old Bay seasoning, this casserole is a showstopper for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or festive gatherings. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect as a main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Let’s bring coastal comfort to your table with this irresistible recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with a rich, savory crust that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Here’s why it’s a must-make:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes with simple prep.
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish, appetizer, or party platter.
- Flavor-Packed: Combines buttery, garlicky, and cheesy goodness with tender shrimp.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance for stress-free entertaining.
- Impressive: Looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice): Look for 16/20 or 21/25 count for best size.
- 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs: Panko for extra crunch or homemade for a rustic touch.
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, savory depth.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brings freshness and color.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For bold, aromatic flavor.
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping and adds richness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for a bright, tangy lift.
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning: Infuses a classic seafood spice blend.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for balanced seasoning.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For greasing the baking dish.
- Optional garnishes: Extra parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microplane or grater (for Parmesan, if not pre-grated)
- Cutting board and knife
- Small bowl (for melting butter)
- Spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or a similar-sized casserole dish) with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also use a brush or paper towel to spread the oil evenly.
Tip: For easy cleanup, line the dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang, and lightly oil the paper.
Step 2: Make the Garlic-Parmesan Stuffing
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp chopped parsley, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and ¼ cup melted butter.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Be mindful of salt, as Parmesan and Old Bay are already salty.
- Stir until the mixture is well-combined and moist, resembling a coarse, slightly sticky topping. If it’s too dry, add an extra 1–2 tsp melted butter or lemon juice.
Variation: For a spicier kick, add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the stuffing mix.
Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp
- Pat the 1 lb shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the topping adhere.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single, even layer in the prepared baking dish. If leaving tails on, position them for a pretty presentation (tails facing up or to one side).
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the shrimp for extra seasoning.
Note: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to avoid a watery casserole.
Step 4: Top and Bake
- Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, covering each one generously. Gently press the topping with the back of a spoon to help it stick.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C) and the topping is golden and crispy.
- If the topping isn’t browned enough, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Safety Tip: Use oven mitts when handling the hot dish, and place it on a heat-safe surface.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes to settle.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
- Serve hot as a main dish with sides or as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy sharing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Dish: Pair with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted asparagus.
- Appetizer: Serve in smaller portions with cocktail forks or alongside a dipping sauce like tartar or aioli.
- Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a chilled cucumber salad complement the flavors.
Tips for Success
- Shrimp Size: Large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count per pound) are ideal for even cooking and a substantial bite. Avoid smaller shrimp, as they may overcook.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh shrimp are great, but frozen work well if thawed properly. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they’ll become rubbery.
- Breadcrumb Options: Panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture, while regular or homemade breadcrumbs offer a denser crust. For gluten-free, use GF breadcrumbs.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake just before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispness.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole (unbaked), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, adding 5 minutes to the cook time.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Calories: ~320 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings)
- Servings: 4 as a main dish or 8 as an appetizer
Note: Calorie content may vary based on portion size, breadcrumb type, and garnishes.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or Gouda with the Parmesan for extra gooeyness.
- Herb Swap: Replace parsley with dill, tarragon, or chives for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp Cajun seasoning or a pinch of chili powder to the stuffing mix.
- Veggie Boost: Layer thinly sliced zucchini or spinach under the shrimp for added nutrition.
- Luxury Upgrade: Stir ¼ cup lump crabmeat or chopped scallops into the stuffing for a decadent seafood medley.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
Cultural Context and Serving Ideas
This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is inspired by classic coastal American cuisine, particularly popular in New England and Southern seafood traditions. It’s reminiscent of stuffed shrimp dishes served in upscale seafood restaurants, where buttery, garlicky toppings elevate the natural sweetness of shrimp. Perfect for holiday feasts, dinner parties, or a special weeknight treat, this casserole brings a taste of the shore to your home.
For a complete dining experience, pair with:
- Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay to complement the seafood.
- Sides: Wild rice pilaf, sautéed green beans, or a tomato-basil salad.
- Dessert: A light finish like lemon sorbet or key lime pie to echo the citrus notes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use smaller shrimp?
A: Yes, but reduce the baking time to 12–15 minutes to avoid overcooking. Medium shrimp (26/30 count) work well for appetizer portions.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative, and use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?
A: The shrimp should be pink, opaque, and slightly curled, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The topping should be golden.
Q: Can I prep this in advance?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 4 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding 2–3 minutes to the cook time.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole with Garlic-Parmesan Crust is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a luxurious, flavor-packed dish. With its tender shrimp, crispy topping, and vibrant seasonings, it’s a recipe that delivers on taste and presentation without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a seafood escape at home, this casserole is sure to delight. Try it today and bring a touch of coastal elegance to your table!
Have you tried this recipe? Share your photos, tips, or variations in the comments below—we’d love to hear how it turned out!
