Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole

Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole

A Delightful Dish That’s Sure to Impress!

If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with family-friendly appeal, look no further than the Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole! This delightful casserole combines the briny goodness of shrimp with a melty, cheesy sauce, topped with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning that brings it all together. Did you know that shrimp is not only delicious but also a fantastic source of protein? That makes this casserole a great choice for a wholesome yet indulgent meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen for hours. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a dish that feels like a special occasion!

Many of you might be familiar with classic macaroni and cheese, which is a favorite comfort food. However, this casserole takes comfort to a new level by adding succulent shrimp and a kick of flavor that will have your family asking for seconds! It’s a fantastic way to mix things up on a busy weeknight or to impress friends during a gathering. So, grab your apron and get ready to dive into this scrumptious dish that’s sure to satisfy!

What is Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole?

So, what exactly is in a Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole? Well, it’s a delightful fusion of shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and the iconic Old Bay seasoning that’s synonymous with coastal cuisines. Ever wonder how a dish gets its goofy name? “Old Bay” refers to a classic seafood seasoning blend that originated in Maryland. It became a staple of the Chesapeake Bay area, where shrimp and crabs reign supreme. Have you ever heard the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? That couldn’t be truer when it comes to this mouthwatering casserole! With each bite, you’ll find yourself craving more of that cheesy, decadent goodness. Trust me, you won’t want to let this one pass by – it’s time to gather your ingredients and give it a whirl!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole

There are countless reasons why this Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole deserves a place on your dinner table. For starters, the star of the show is, of course, the shrimp. Succulent and juicy, these little gems are enhanced by the creamy cheese sauce that hugs them like a cozy blanket on a chilly night. Secondly, making this casserole at home is not only economical, but it’s also a great way to impress family and friends without breaking the bank.

And let’s not forget those flavorful toppings! The Old Bay seasoning offers a unique blend of spices that elevates the dish from simple to extraordinary, providing just the right amount of kick. If you’re a fan of classic shrimp scampi, you’ll absolutely love this casserole. Both dishes celebrate the magnificent shrimp while adding unique twists. So, why not delve into the kitchen and create this masterpiece? You won’t regret it!

How to Make Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole

Quick Overview

Creating a delectable Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole is a breeze. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with shrimp. The standout feature of this casserole is undoubtedly its luscious cheese sauce that beautifully melds with perfectly cooked shrimp, all brought to life with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning.

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole

To make this savory casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups cooked pasta (your choice)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or any creamy soup)
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the shrimp until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, Old Bay seasoning, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Fold in the sautéed shrimp and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

What to Serve Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole With

To round out this delightful meal, consider serving a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the casserole. Additionally, a side of crusty bread or garlic knots can be perfect for mopping up all that cheesy goodness. If you’re looking for a drink to pair, a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemon-lime soda can enhance the flavors beautifully!

Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole

To elevate your casserole-making skills, here are some handy tips:

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp will also work, just make sure they are fully thawed and well-drained before cooking.
• Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles; a mixture of mozzarella and gouda can offer a delightful twist.
• Don’t rush the baking process! Allow it to bake long enough for the cheese to become bubbly for that irresistible gooey texture.
• For a bit of crunch, top the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Have leftovers? No worries! Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions for a quick meal. If you’ve made a large batch and want to save it for later, this casserole can be frozen as well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen servings, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming up in the oven.

There you have it – a complete guide to making Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole! Gather your ingredients, and let the deliciousness unfold. Your family is sure to love this creamy, cheesy delight!

Cheesy Old Bay Shrimp Casserole

A creamy, flavorful casserole packed with succulent shrimp and topped with melty cheese and Old Bay seasoning.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Seafood

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Use fresh shrimp for best flavor.
• 2 cups cooked pasta (your choice)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Divided into two parts for mixing and topping.
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup Can use any creamy soup.
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• to taste Salt and pepper
• optional fresh parsley for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the shrimp until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, Old Bay seasoning, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Fold in the sautéed shrimp and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

Serve with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread or garlic knots. For added flavor, pair with a crisp white wine or lemon-lime soda. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.