Cheesy Shrimp and Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This shrimp casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish that combines tender shrimp with fluffy rice and a flavorful sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting family meal or casual dinner with friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 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
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, cook the shrimp over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Step 3: Fold in the cooked rice and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the rice is evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Gently stir the cooked shrimp into the rice and cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout.
5. Step 5: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the shrimp mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
7. Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
8. Step 8: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
9. Step 9: Slice and serve hot, ideally with a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
• Substitute cooked brown rice for a nuttier texture and added nutrition.
• If you prefer, swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste.
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the mixture for added color and freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering to retain moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Make sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Cheesy Shrimp and Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 92 reviews

This Shrimp Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender shrimp, creamy sour cream and mayonnaise sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and fluffy cooked rice. Topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect meal for family dinners or special occasions. A delicious, easy-to-make casserole that’s sure to please seafood lovers.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Rice Base

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cooked white rice

Cheese and Sauce Mix

• 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

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp and pat them dry to ready them for cooking.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Add the Rice and Cheese: Fold the cooked white rice and shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
5. Combine Shrimp with Rice Mixture: Gently stir the cooked shrimp into the rice and cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution throughout.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the shrimp and rice mixture evenly inside.
7. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor. Slice and serve hot, ideally with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

Notes

• Make sure shrimp are fully cooked but not overcooked to avoid rubbery texture.
• You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping if preferred.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, bake in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

Keywords: shrimp casserole, baked shrimp recipe, cheesy shrimp casserole, easy seafood casserole, comforting dinner recipe