Description
This Shrimp Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender, sautéed shrimp with creamy sour cream and mayonnaise, fragrant spices, cooked white rice, and a generous layer of cheddar cheese. Topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection, it makes a perfect main course for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Rice
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked white rice
Casserole Mixture
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the heat and set aside.
- Make the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Gently fold in the cooked rice and shrimp, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the shrimp and rice mixture into it. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with breadcrumbs and mix until the breadcrumbs are fully coated with the butter. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the layer of cheese in the baking dish.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fully cooked but not overcooked to prevent toughness.
- You can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier option.
- For added flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the casserole mixture.
- Breadcrumb topping can be replaced with crushed crackers for a different texture.
- Make sure to adjust salt according to the saltiness of the cheese used.
