Description
Mediterranean-inspired Baked Shrimp Casserole delivers ocean-fresh flavors with Mediterranean herbs and garlic-infused goodness. Creamy textures and succulent shrimp invite diners to savor coastal comfort in one irresistible dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dairy and Cheese:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
- ¾ cup (85 grams) grated cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Other Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Topping:
- 1 cup (120 grams) breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) melted butter
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with a light coating of unsalted butter or nonstick cooking spray.
- Melt butter in a small microwave-safe bowl and blend with finely chopped fresh garlic, creating an aromatic base.
- Arrange raw shrimp in a single, uniform layer across the prepared baking dish, ensuring no overlapping.
- Create a rich sauce by whisking together low-sodium chicken broth, full-fat heavy cream, dried thyme leaves, sweet paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a separate mixing bowl.
- Generously pour the creamy sauce over the shrimp, completely covering each piece to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Distribute freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and aged Parmesan cheese evenly across the surface of the shrimp and sauce.
- Prepare the crispy topping by combining plain breadcrumbs with melted butter, stirring until each crumb is thoroughly coated with the rich butter.
- Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture uniformly over the entire casserole, creating a golden, crunchy layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-26 minutes, watching for a beautiful golden-brown crust and bubbling sauce edges.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 3-4 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the sauce settle and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Creamy seafood dish perfect for impressing dinner guests with minimal cooking skills.
- Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp to elevate the overall flavor and texture of the casserole.
- Cheese and breadcrumb topping creates a delightful crispy golden crust that adds incredible crunch.
- Cooking time is crucial – watch carefully to prevent overcooking the delicate shrimp and drying out the sauce.
- Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the rich, bubbling sauce and maximum flavor intensity.
- Pair with light side dishes like green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 492 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 23 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 295 mg