If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe is just what you need. Combining tender, succulent shrimp with creamy cheddar cheese and fluffy rice, all baked under a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole effortlessly brings together flavors and textures that scream comfort food done right. It’s a fantastic family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for any night you want cozy without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe shines because of its simple, accessible ingredients. Each component plays an essential role, from the bold cheddar adding richness, to the fluffy rice giving it body, and those crispy breadcrumbs bringing a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined for easy eating and quick cooking.
- Cooked white rice (1 cup): Provides a soft, fluffy base to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Adds rich, sharp flavor that melts perfectly throughout.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Contributes creaminess and subtle tanginess to the casserole mix.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Blends everything together with luscious smoothness.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the flavors by adding a gentle citrus note.
- Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): Infuses a deep savory aroma without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds mild sweetness and complexity.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle smokiness and a touch of warmth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
- Butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Used to coat breadcrumbs, creating that perfect crispy topping.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Creates a golden-brown crunchy layer that contrasts the creamy casserole.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor as a finishing touch.
How to Make Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking your shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—this ensures they’re tender and perfectly cooked. Once done, set them aside so they’re ready to be folded into the casserole mixture.
Step 2: Make the Casserole Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a creamy, flavorful base that ties the entire dish together. Gently stir in the cooked rice and the shrimp, making sure everything is evenly coated without breaking up the shrimp too much.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your shrimp and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Next, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese right over the top. This hefty cheese layer will melt down into the casserole, giving it that irresistible gooey factor we all love.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs until they’re fully coated. This step is crucial because it enables the topping to turn golden and crunchy as it bakes. Evenly sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer for that perfect crispy finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole on the middle rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the breadcrumb topping is a beautiful golden brown and the cheesy filling is bubbling invitingly around the edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle beautifully.
How to Serve Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your presentation, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top just before serving. Not only does it add a pop of vibrant green, but it also lends a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This savory casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or green beans, also complement the flavors and add a nice element of freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch when entertaining guests. You can also sprinkle extra cheddar before broiling the casserole for an additional bubbly cheese top or add a hint of smoked paprika on top to deepen the smoky flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually have time to meld, so often it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through to help maintain that crispy topping. For a quicker option, microwave individual servings, but note that the topping may lose some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking so they don’t release too much moisture into the casserole, which could make it soggy.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You’ll still get that delicious crunchy topping without gluten.
Can I substitute the white rice with brown rice or quinoa?
Definitely. Brown rice or cooked quinoa both work well, though they might slightly change the texture and flavor. Make sure they’re fully cooked and cooled before mixing into the casserole.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds tanginess and creaminess without as much fat.
How spicy is the casserole?
This recipe is mildly seasoned with paprika; you can adjust the spiciness by adding a pinch of cayenne or using smoked paprika if you enjoy a bit more heat and depth.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to comfort meals. It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying with a perfectly crunchy top that keeps things interesting bite after bite. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this casserole will bring smiles all around the table, making meal time something to really look forward to.
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Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shrimp Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender shrimp, creamy sour cream and mayonnaise mixture, cooked rice, and shredded cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, it bakes until bubbly and golden, offering a deliciously creamy texture with a crispy finish.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Rice
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked white rice
Casserole Mixture
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 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
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and evenly blended. Gently stir in the cooked rice and the cooked shrimp, ensuring the ingredients are distributed evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the shrimp and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating the casserole is heated through and the topping is crisp.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Peeling and deveining shrimp beforehand ensures a better texture and bite in the casserole.
- Leftover cooked rice can be used to save time and add extra flavor to the dish.
- The casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if refrigerated.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on the saltiness of the cheese and mayonnaise.
