Best Shrimp Casserole Recipe

One bite of this shrimp casserole, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. I threw it together on a random weeknight with leftover shrimp, a few pantry staples, and zero expectations. But the result? Way better than I imagined—warm, creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor in every single forkful. It hits that perfect spot between comfort food and something you’d proudly serve to guests.

This has quickly become one of my favorite dishes to make when I want something easy yet satisfying. Whether you’re feeding family, hosting friends, or just cooking for yourself, this shrimp casserole delivers without the hassle. Let me show you exactly how I make it from scratch—step-by-step, no fancy tricks, just real flavor.

Why You Should Try This Shrimp Casserole Recipe?

If you love simple meals that taste like they took hours, this one’s for you. This shrimp casserole brings together tender shrimp, creamy sauce, melty cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning—all baked into one bubbling dish of comfort. It’s not heavy or overly rich, but it still feels like a treat.

What makes it even better? You don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy steps. It’s quick to prep, perfect for busy nights, and reheats beautifully the next day. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—great for family dinners, potlucks, or lazy Sunday evenings.

Ingredients For Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This recipe keeps it simple, using easy-to-find ingredients that come together for a flavorful and filling dish. You’ll get juicy shrimp, a creamy base, and cheesy topping—all baked to golden perfection. Here’s everything you’ll need to serve four hungry people.

• 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Required Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Oven

Total Time Required

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Make Shrimp Casserole (Step By Step Instructions)

This shrimp casserole comes together easily in just a few steps. You don’t need any complicated methods—just mix, layer, and bake. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have a warm, bubbly dish ready in under an hour.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease your baking dish with butter so nothing sticks later.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp (If Needed)

If your shrimp are raw, lightly sauté them in a pan with a touch of oil until they turn pink. This usually takes about 3–4 minutes. If using pre-cooked shrimp, skip this step.

Step 3: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped celery, onion, bell pepper, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if you like a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and bubbly around the edges.

Step 6: Serve

Once done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips For Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Want your shrimp casserole to turn out perfect every time? These quick tips will help you avoid common mistakes and get the best flavor and texture from your dish. A few small changes can make a big difference.

• Use fresh or thawed shrimp: Avoid adding frozen shrimp directly to the mix—it waters down the casserole. Always thaw and pat dry first.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: If cooking them before baking, just sauté until they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery fast.
• Chop veggies small: Smaller pieces of onion, celery, and bell pepper cook evenly and blend better with the creamy mix.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the mix before baking. Add more garlic, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
• Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture, sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
• Let it rest after baking: Give it 5–10 minutes to settle before serving. It thickens slightly and scoops better.
• Double it for leftovers: This casserole reheats well, so make a bigger batch if you want lunch ready for the next day.

FAQs

What Type Of Shrimp Works Best For This Recipe?

Medium to large peeled and deveined shrimp work best. You can use fresh or frozen, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp unless you’re short on time—they can turn rubbery when baked again.

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just assemble the mixture in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it as directed. You may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.

What Can I Use Instead Of Cream Of Mushroom Soup?

You can swap cream of mushroom with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup. If you prefer homemade, make a quick white sauce using butter, flour, and milk for a similar texture and flavor. It’s easy and adds a fresh touch to the casserole.

How Do I Store And Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of milk or water before reheating to keep it moist.

Can I Freeze Shrimp Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Conclusion

This shrimp casserole is one of those no-fuss meals that delivers every time. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for both busy nights and casual get-togethers. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need a reliable dish in your rotation, this recipe is a solid choice. Give it a try—you might end up adding it to your weekly menu.

You should also try these recipes Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe and Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe.