There is something deeply comforting about a bubbling casserole pulled straight from the oven, especially when it is filled with tender shrimp in a creamy sauce and topped with a golden, buttery crumb crust. This Ultimate Baked Shrimp Casserole with Buttery Crumb Topping is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special. It is perfect for Sunday family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight when you want something hearty yet elegant.

This recipe was inspired by classic coastal comfort food traditions where fresh seafood meets rich, satisfying flavors. Growing up, casseroles were always at the center of our family table. They were easy to prepare, generous enough to feed everyone, and always brought people together. This shrimp casserole carries that same spirit—simple ingredients, beautiful flavor, and the kind of warmth that makes a house feel like home.

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Why This Ultimate Baked Shrimp Casserole Belongs in Your Dinner Rotation

This shrimp casserole recipe checks every box for a dependable family favorite. It combines creamy, cheesy richness with the delicate sweetness of shrimp, finished with a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds irresistible texture.

Here’s why this dish stands out:

• It’s easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining

• It uses simple, accessible ingredients

• It delivers bold flavor without complicated steps

• It can be prepared ahead of time

• It’s highly customizable

The balance of textures is what makes this recipe exceptional. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp, buttery topping. Each bite delivers tender shrimp coated in velvety sauce, followed by a satisfying crunch from the golden crumbs.

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Ingredients for Ultimate Baked Shrimp Casserole

To create this rich and comforting shrimp casserole, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Measurements are provided in both US customary and metric units for convenience and accuracy.

For the Shrimp Filling

• 2 pounds (900 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 3 tablespoons (45 g) unsalted butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream

• 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

• 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) paprika

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons (8 g) chopped fresh parsley

For the Buttery Crumb Topping

• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)

• 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon (5 g) chopped fresh parsley

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Choosing the Best Shrimp for Casserole

The star of this recipe is, of course, the shrimp. Choosing high-quality shrimp ensures your casserole tastes fresh and flavorful.

Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

Both fresh and frozen shrimp work beautifully in this dish. In many cases, frozen shrimp are flash-frozen at peak freshness, making them an excellent option. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 20–30 minutes.

Size Matters

Large shrimp are ideal for this casserole. They hold their texture during baking and provide satisfying bites throughout the dish. Medium shrimp can work in a pinch, but avoid very small shrimp as they may overcook easily.

Raw, Not Pre-Cooked

Always use raw shrimp for this recipe. Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when baked again in the oven. Cooking them directly in the casserole ensures they remain tender and juicy.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Shrimp Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture prevents the casserole from becoming watery.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons (45 g) of unsalted butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Base

Sprinkle 1/4 cup (30 g) of all-purpose flour over the onion mixture. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.

Gradually whisk in 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk and 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. This typically takes 4–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to low and stir in:

• 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt

• 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) paprika

Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes velvety and rich.

Add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons (8 g) chopped parsley to brighten the flavors.

Step 5: Combine with Shrimp

Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Buttery Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine:

• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) breadcrumbs

• 4 tablespoons (60 g) melted butter

• 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon (5 g) chopped parsley

Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and slightly clumpy.

Sprinkle the topping evenly over the shrimp mixture.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the topping is golden brown.

If you want extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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What Makes This Shrimp Casserole So Flavorful?

Several key elements elevate this dish beyond a typical seafood bake:

The Cream Sauce

The combination of butter, flour, milk, and cream creates a classic roux-based sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully. It is rich without being overly heavy.

Layered Cheese Flavor

Using both cheddar and Parmesan adds depth. Cheddar contributes creaminess, while Parmesan delivers sharp, nutty complexity.

Lemon Brightness

A small amount of fresh lemon juice enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and balances the richness of the sauce.

Buttery Crumb Topping

The topping adds texture and prevents the casserole from feeling too soft. The butter-infused breadcrumbs crisp up perfectly in the oven.

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Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about this shrimp casserole recipe is its versatility.

Add Vegetables

• Sautéed mushrooms

• Spinach

• Diced bell peppers

• Steamed broccoli florets

Simply fold vegetables into the sauce before adding the shrimp.

Make It Spicy

Add 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce gentle heat.

Try Different Cheeses

Substitute Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a unique twist.

Add Rice

Mix in 2 cups (400 g) cooked white rice to turn it into a complete one-dish meal.

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Serving Suggestions

This Ultimate Baked Shrimp Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed jasmine rice

• Buttered egg noodles

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Fresh green salad

• Roasted asparagus

• Steamed green beans

• Crusty artisan bread

For a more elegant presentation, serve it in individual ramekins for dinner guests.

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Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal planning.

• Prepare the filling up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate.

• Store the crumb topping separately to maintain crunch.

• Allow the dish to sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before baking.

You may need to add 5 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from chilled.

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Oven: 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes

• Microwave: Use short intervals to prevent overcooking

Freezing is possible, though the texture of shrimp may soften slightly after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?

Yes, frozen shrimp work very well in this recipe and are often more convenient than fresh shrimp. Many shrimp sold at seafood counters were previously frozen, so purchasing frozen shrimp can actually guarantee freshness. The key is thawing them properly. The safest method is to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. If you are short on time, place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in a bowl of cold water for 20 to 30 minutes, changing the water halfway through.

After thawing, it is essential to pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can thin the sauce and prevent the casserole from achieving its rich, creamy consistency. Avoid using pre-cooked shrimp because they will cook again in the oven and may become rubbery.

2. How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Shrimp cook very quickly, which is why timing is important. In this casserole, the shrimp cook directly in the oven while surrounded by sauce. Bake just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Overbaking is the most common cause of rubbery shrimp.

Using raw shrimp instead of pre-cooked shrimp is another critical step. Since they cook from raw in the casserole, they stay tender and juicy. Also, avoid baking longer than recommended. If your topping browns quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil rather than extending cooking time unnecessarily.

3. Can I prepare this shrimp casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is ideal for preparing in advance. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For the best texture, store the crumb topping separately and sprinkle it over the casserole right before baking.

When ready to cook, allow the dish to sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps it bake more evenly. If baking directly from cold, add about 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. Can this shrimp casserole be made gluten-free?

Absolutely. To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for thickening sauces. You can also use cornstarch, using 2 tablespoons (16 g) mixed with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) cold milk to create a slurry before adding to the sauce.

For the topping, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture will remain crispy and delicious, and the flavor will be just as satisfying.

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Final Thoughts

This Ultimate Baked Shrimp Casserole with Buttery Crumb Topping is more than just a dinner recipe. It represents comfort, tradition, and the simple joy of sharing a homemade meal with the people you love. With its creamy, cheese-filled sauce and perfectly crisp topping, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and approachable.

What makes this recipe especially valuable is its versatility. It can be customized to suit your preferences, adapted for dietary needs, and prepared ahead for busy schedules. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner, hosting guests, or preparing a holiday spread, this casserole fits seamlessly into any occasion.

Its appeal lies in both flavor and texture. The tender shrimp, rich sauce, and buttery crumbs come together in a way that feels both classic and comforting. It is the kind of recipe that becomes part of your regular rotation, requested again and again.

When you serve this shrimp casserole, you are not just offering food—you are offering warmth, generosity, and a dish made with care. That is what transforms a simple meal into a family favorite dinner.

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