If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, look no further than this Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe. It’s a creamy, comforting blend of tender shrimp combined with fluffy rice and melty cheddar cheese, all topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer that adds the perfect textural contrast. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole is guaranteed to become one of your go-to favorites, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas and your heart with pure satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together beautifully to create this unforgettable dish. Each component plays a vital role, from the succulent shrimp to the sharp cheddar, while the crispy breadcrumbs add that irresistible crunch.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh, tender shrimp are the star of this casserole, providing a juicy seafood flavor.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: Acts as a hearty base absorbing all the creamy goodness and flavors.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds richness and a wonderful melted texture that binds everything together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and creaminess to the mix, keeping the casserole moist.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Enhances the creamy texture and adds subtle depth to the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus note.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses the casserole with warm, savory undertones.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Compliments the garlic for a well-rounded seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Used to bind the breadcrumbs and add a golden finish.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping): Creates that delightful, crispy top layer everyone loves.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink color and are fully cooked through. Taking care here means juicy shrimp with the perfect texture—avoid overcooking as they’ll go into the oven later. Once done, set the shrimp aside and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until smooth and perfectly blended. This sauce will be the heart of your casserole, ensuring every bite is creamy with that subtle zing of lemon.
Step 3: Mix in Rice and Cheddar Cheese
Fold your cooked rice and shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture. The rice will soak up all that creamy goodness, while the cheese melts into every nook, creating a luscious texture that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Incorporate the Shrimp
Gently stir the cooked shrimp into the rice and cheese mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed. This ensures that every serving has a perfect balance of shrimp and cheesy rice — no one misses out on the main attraction!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the shrimp mixture in, smoothing out the top for even baking. This is the moment your casserole starts to take shape—a promise of something delicious to come.
Step 6: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and breadcrumbs. Mix them until the crumbs are nicely coated with butter, which helps them bake into a perfectly crisp and golden layer. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole’s surface.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling hot around the edges. This step brings everything together into a beautiful, comforting masterpiece.
Step 8: Add the Final Touches
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld and makes slicing easier. Finish off by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley on top to add a burst of color and freshness to your dish.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your casserole into portions and serve warm. This is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, paired with your favorite sides or simply on its own because it’s just that good!
How to Serve Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a fantastic and easy garnish that brightens the presentation, you can also experiment with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese, a squeeze of lemon, or even some thinly sliced green onions for additional color and flavor layers.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is wonderfully creamy and rich, pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides works wonderfully. Think crisp garden salad, steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or even a lightly dressed cabbage slaw to add crunch and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins topped with mini sprigs of fresh herbs. You can also get playful by layering it in clear glass baking dishes so the cheesy rice and shrimp layers peek through, tempting guests before they take the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though you might not!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole holds up wonderfully, making for an easy next-day meal with just a quick reheat.
Freezing
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe also freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To maintain the crispy topping best, consider adding fresh breadcrumbs after thawing before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover the casserole with foil to prevent the topping from burning, removing it in the last few minutes to crisp up again. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the breadcrumb crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture which can make the casserole soggy.
Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled before mixing into the dish to keep the texture right.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the cheddar with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use dairy-free sour cream and mayonnaise. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
What can I do if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers, panko, or even crushed cornflakes work well to create a crispy topping in place of breadcrumbs.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild, with just a hint of paprika for color and subtle warmth. You can add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder if you prefer some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Casserole with Cheddar, Rice, and Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a special occasion but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and steps. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—a wonderful way to bring warmth and happiness to your dinner table. I encourage you to try it soon and watch it become a beloved classic in your cooking repertoire!
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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 creamy shrimp casserole is a comforting and flavorful dinner perfect for family meals. Featuring tender shrimp, cooked rice, a cheesy sour cream mixture, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it combines easy stovetop cooking with oven baking to create a rich and satisfying dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Rice
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked white rice
Casserole Mixture
- 1 ½ 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)
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add rice and cheese: Fold in the cooked white rice and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the rice is fully coated and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine shrimp: Gently stir the cooked shrimp into the rice and cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the casserole.
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the shrimp and rice mixture evenly in the dish.
- Make topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter and breadcrumbs, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add color and freshness.
- Serve: Slice the casserole and serve hot, paired with side dishes like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
- You can substitute cooked brown rice for a healthier twist.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
- To save time, shrimp can be cooked while preparing the sauce mixture.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
