Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole A Gourmet Delight Made Simple

Baked stuffed shrimp casserole is a show-stopping dish that brings together succulent seafood, a rich stuffing, and a golden baked crust. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply craving a hearty, flavorful meal, this recipe delivers on taste and elegance. Designed with beginners in mind, this guide offers step-by-step instructions, tips, and techniques to ensure perfect results every time.

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Why Choose a Shrimp Casserole? Baked stuffed shrimp casserole

Shrimp casseroles combine the delicate flavor of shrimp with a stuffing that’s both hearty and luxurious. Here’s why it’s worth trying:

• Easy Preparation: All the components are assembled in one dish for minimal cleanup.
• Impressive Presentation: It’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or intimate dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the stuffing with herbs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings of your choice.

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Ingredients for Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole

For this recipe, you’ll need the following:

Shrimp:

• 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Stuffing:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or seasoned)
• ½ cup crab meat (optional but recommended for a luxurious flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs

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Equipment Needed for Baked stuffed shrimp casserole

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Sharp knife for butterfly cutting
• Small saucepan for sautéing

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Step-by-Step Instructions Baked stuffed shrimp casserole

1. Preheat Your Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking. Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

• Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
• Use a sharp knife to butterfly the shrimp by making a shallow cut along the back. Be careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a pocket for the stuffing.
• Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Arrange them in a single layer in your greased baking dish.

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3. Make the Stuffing

• Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
• Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with breadcrumbs, crab meat, parsley, paprika, cayenne pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
• Add Moisture: Drizzle in melted butter and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture holds together but isn’t too wet. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

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4. Stuff the Shrimp

• Use a small spoon to gently place the stuffing into the butterflied shrimp pockets. Press the stuffing lightly to secure it in place. The shrimp should curl slightly around the stuffing.

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5. Add the Topping

• Mix the remaining breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the stuffed shrimp to create a golden, crispy crust.

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6. Bake the Casserole

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and the topping is golden brown.

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7. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with additional parsley and a wedge of lemon for a fresh finish. Serve the casserole warm with a side of rice or a crisp green salad.

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Expert Tips for Beginners Baked stuffed shrimp casserole

1. Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor. Thaw frozen shrimp in cold water before using.
2. Butterfly Evenly: Take your time cutting the shrimp to create an even pocket for stuffing. Practice on a few before working on the rest.
3. Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overloading the shrimp with stuffing, as it may spill out during baking.
4. Use a Thermometer: Shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure doneness without overcooking.

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Variations and Customizations

1. Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper for a spicier stuffing.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
3. Herb-Infused Butter: Infuse your melted butter with rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor.

For more inspiration, check out this guide to shrimp recipes from the Food Network.

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How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding 10-15 minutes to the cook time.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

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Suggested Pairings

This baked shrimp casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Butter Green Beans: The light crunch and buttery flavor balance the richness of the casserole.
• Herbed Rice Pilaf: A simple yet elegant side that complements the seafood flavors.
• Crisp White Wine: Try a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to elevate your dining experience.

Find more side dish ideas at Southern Living.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 20-30 minutes, or thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.

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2. What is the best size of shrimp to use?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe because they’re easier to butterfly and hold more stuffing. Look for shrimp labeled as 16/20 (16-20 shrimp per pound) for optimal results.

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3. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

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4. What can I use as a substitute for crab meat?

If crab meat isn’t available or you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with finely chopped cooked shrimp, canned tuna, or even shredded cooked chicken for a non-seafood variation.

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5. How do I ensure the shrimp doesn’t overcook?

To prevent overcooking, follow the recommended baking times and keep an eye on the shrimp. They should turn pink and opaque, which typically happens within 20-25 minutes at 375°F. Using a food thermometer, ensure the internal temperature of the shrimp reaches 145°F (63°C).

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6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses breadcrumbs, which are not gluten-free. However, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

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7. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole. Place it in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

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8. What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with:

• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
• Rice pilaf or wild rice.
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread for soaking up the delicious juices.

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9. Can I add other seafood to the stuffing?

Yes! You can add scallops, cooked lobster, or even finely diced cooked fish to the stuffing for an even more luxurious dish.

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10. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the stuffing mixture. Adjust the spice level to your taste preference.

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11. What is the best way to reheat this dish?

The best way to reheat the casserole is in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may make the shrimp rubbery.

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For more seafood cooking tips and techniques, explore this guide to perfect shrimp recipes or check out The Kitchn’s tips on cooking seafood!

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