Name: Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

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Looking for a dinner that’s both comforting and impressive? This Shrimp Casserole checks every box: juicy shrimp nestled among tender rice, colorful veggies, and a blanket of golden, melty cheese. It’s the kind of hearty, one-pan meal that makes you feel like you’re sitting at your grandmother’s table—no matter where you are. Whether you’re feeding a family or planning a cozy evening with friends, this casserole delivers equal parts flavor and pure comfort. Plus, the irresistible pairing of shrimp with creamy, savory goodness makes it impossible not to reach for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Assembling Shrimp Casserole couldn’t be easier, and every ingredient here matters—each one brings texture, color, or depth of flavor to the table. These simple staples work together for a casserole that’s luscious, robust, and just a touch indulgent.

Raw Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star of the show! Fresh or thawed shrimp add sweet, briny flavor and succulent texture.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): A hint of richness to sauté and soften the veggies, creating a cozy base.
Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds aromatic sweetness and depth that melds into every bite.
Bell Pepper (1, any color, chopped): Gives a pop of color and subtle crunch—red, yellow, or green all work well.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings bold, savory flavor to balance the creamy elements of the casserole.
Uncooked Long-Grain Rice (1 cup): The casserole’s hearty backbone, soaking up all the delicious juices as it bakes.
Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): The secret to that creamy, dreamy texture, binding everything together.
Chicken Broth (1 cup): Infuses the rice and shrimp with delicious moisture and savory dimension.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (½ cup): Melts over the top and inside for irresistible gooeyness and a little sharp bite.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and deepens the color—smoked paprika is especially wonderful!
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate shrimp.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Provides a background note of gentle heat and depth.
Chopped Parsley (2 tablespoons, optional): Brightens the finished dish with a fresh, herbal lift—highly recommended for a pretty finish.

How to Make Shrimp Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and add your onion and bell pepper. Let them sizzle away for about five minutes, stirring often, until soft and fragrant. This step is your foundation—softened veggies soak up the flavors and create a naturally sweet, savory base for the whole Shrimp Casserole.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Toast the Rice

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute, just until it releases its enticing aroma (don’t let it burn). Pour in the uncooked rice, stirring everything together, and let the rice toast for another one to two minutes. This extra step adds a subtle nutty flavor that makes the finished casserole taste so much more complex.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until it’s smooth and cohesive—you want that creamy goodness to surround every single grain of rice and piece of shrimp! This is what’ll keep your Shrimp Casserole moist and luscious from edge to edge.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

To your creamy soup mixture, add the sautéed veggies and rice mixture, the raw shrimp, and half of the shredded cheddar. Stir until everything is evenly combined. This is the moment it starts to look like a hearty, proper casserole—make sure every shrimp is coated and tucked in with rice and sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and use a spatula to smooth it out. Cover tightly with foil—this traps the steam and helps the rice cook through. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the foil, sprinkle on the remaining cheese, and return to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes. The top should be melty, bubbly, and golden, while the rice underneath turns perfectly tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let your Shrimp Casserole rest for a few minutes before serving, then shower with chopped parsley if you’d like. The flavors will be melded together, and that sprinkle of green looks gorgeous against the cheesy top.

How to Serve Shrimp Casserole

Garnishes

A finishing touch goes a long way! Try a flurry of freshly chopped parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top just before serving. These herbs cut through the richness of the Shrimp Casserole and add beautiful color, making each serving look extra inviting. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten up the flavors if you enjoy a citrusy tang.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp Casserole is already a complete meal on its own, but it really shines with simple sides. Think a crisp green salad tossed with a lemony vinaigrette, some garlic bread for scooping up creamy sauce, or even a platter of roasted broccoli or asparagus. The mildness of steamed or sautéed vegetables balances the richness of the casserole for a well-rounded table.

Creative Ways to Present

Make an impression by serving Shrimp Casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner party feel, or try layering with extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for color and variety. You can also top each serving with a dollop of herbed sour cream or a lemon wedge for an extra pop of freshness. Sometimes, I even spoon leftovers into halved bell peppers and bake them for a fun twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Shrimp Casserole into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually get even cozier as they meld, making leftovers a real treat for lunch or a quick weeknight dinner. Be sure to cool the casserole to room temperature before popping it into the fridge for best results.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Shrimp Casserole for future meals! Let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers (or wrap the entire baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil). It’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Shrimp Casserole in the oven at 325°F (160°C), covered with foil, until warmed through—about 20 minutes should do the trick. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each interval. Adding a splash of broth or water before reheating helps maintain that creamy, luscious rice.

FAQs

Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw?

Yes, you can! If you have pre-cooked shrimp, add them in during the last 10–15 minutes of baking to prevent them from getting tough. The rest of the recipe stays just the same.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the Shrimp Casserole (without baking), cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes if starting from cold.

Can I substitute another type Main Course

Long-grain rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well, but you could try jasmine or basmati rice for a slightly different texture and aroma. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice, as it may turn mushy.

What other cheeses work well in Shrimp Casserole?

Cheddar is classic for its sharp bite and meltiness, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sprinkle of parmesan. Mixing cheeses creates lovely layers of flavor!

How do I make this casserole spicier?

To kick up the heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika. You can even stir in your favorite hot sauce to the creamy base, making the Shrimp Casserole uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something hearty yet elegant for your next dinner, let Shrimp Casserole be your go-to recipe. It’s the kind of dish that turns a simple night at home into a special occasion, bursting with comfort and rich seafood flavor in every forkful. Gather your loved ones and give it a try—you’re about to discover a new family favorite!

Shrimp Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting Southern American classic with this delicious Shrimp Casserole. Creamy and cheesy, this baked dish combines succulent shrimp with flavorful rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
Prepare Rice Mixture: Stir in uncooked rice and toast. Combine mushroom soup, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Assemble Casserole: Mix sautéed vegetables, shrimp, and half of the cheese with the rice mixture. Pour into a baking dish.
Bake: Cover and bake for 40 minutes. Uncover, top with remaining cheese, and bake until rice is tender and cheese is melted.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired before serving.