If you’re craving a dish that wraps creamy comfort, seafood goodness, and cheesy delight all in one, this Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender shrimp blended into a rich, cheesy rice mixture, baked to golden perfection with a slight crunch atop — every bite is a warm hug. This casserole strikes the perfect balance between simple ingredients and layers of flavor that make it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Once you dive into this dish, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of straightforward ingredients can come together to create such a delightful meal. Each component in this recipe plays an essential role in building the hearty texture, vibrant colors, and that irresistible cheesy-savory flavor.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that adds a tender, briny bite to the casserole.
- 2 cups cooked rice: Acts as the creamy, starchy base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, melty cheesiness that enriches every forkful.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth to complement the cheddar perfectly.
- 1 cup milk: Creates a smooth and creamy sauce to tie everything together.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Amplifies the richness for a luscious and velvety casserole texture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: A little tang that lightens and balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with savory warmth and depth.
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced: Adds a pop of color and a fresh crunch.
- 1/2 cup celery, diced: Lends a mild, crisp texture and bright flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Essential for sautéing vegetables and giving a silky mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Brings that iconic seafood spice that ties the shrimp and veggies together.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky undertone and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to balance the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Rounds out the herb mix with a subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Creates a golden, crunchy crust that’s pure comfort food heaven.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish): A fresh, bright finish that lifts the casserole visually and in flavor.
How to Make Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Dish
Start things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with butter or a nonstick spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will develop that beautiful golden crust you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. This base builds so much of the flavor, and getting these veggies tender is key to a perfect casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Next, toss the peeled shrimp into the skillet with the vegetables and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cooks fast, so keep an eye on it. Once they’re done, remove the skillet from the heat — these sweet, tender morsels are ready to shine.
Step 4: Combine the Creamy Mixture
Grab a large bowl and mix together cooked rice, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, milk, heavy cream, sour cream, and the array of seasonings: Old Bay, paprika, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. This creamy blend is the heart of your Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe, ensuring every bite is smooth, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned.
Step 5: Fold in Shrimp and Vegetables
Gently stir the cooked shrimp and sautéed vegetables into the cheese and rice mixture. Carefully combining everything now ensures that those flavors meld without breaking up the shrimp too much.
Step 6: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Transfer your creamy, cheesy mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. For those craving a bit of texture contrast, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs evenly over the top — it will bake up with a satisfying golden crunch.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown. As it bakes, the flavors deepen, the cheese melts into everything, and the crust crisps just right.
Step 8: Garnish and Get Ready to Eat
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and brightness. Then it’s time to dig in to that soul-warming Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe you made from scratch!
How to Serve Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Boost the dish’s flavor and presentation by adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving. A light drizzle of lemon juice can also brighten the rich, creamy notes and complement the shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully filling on its own but pairs perfectly with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans. The freshness and crunch from veggies are a great contrast to the creamy, cheesy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. Or spoon it over a bed of lightly sautéed spinach or kale for a nourishing, colorful plate. Offering some crusty bread on the side to mop up every last bit is always a winner too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its flavor and texture nicely when reheated, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for those busy days when you need a quick and comforting dinner.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, which helps preserve the casserole’s creamy texture and crisp topping. You can also microwave smaller portions, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent extra moisture in your casserole. This will keep the texture just right.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
You can swap out the dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and vegan cheese, though the texture might differ slightly. Using dairy-free sour cream and cream substitute can keep the creamy consistency intact.
What’s a good substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay, try a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar seafood-friendly spice profile that still makes the flavors pop.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini would be great additions that complement the shrimp and cheese while adding complexity and nutrition.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños in the sautéed veggies stage. You can also include a spicy cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe truly feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Its combination of tender shrimp, creamy cheeses, and fragrant herbs makes it a dish you’ll want to share with family and friends over and over. Give it a try, and you’ll soon see why this casserole becomes such a beloved go-to — it’s comfort food elevated to a deliciously unforgettable experience.
Print
Shrimp and Cheddar Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish combining succulent shrimp, cooked rice, and a blend of cheeses and spices, all baked to golden perfection. Featuring a medley of sautéed vegetables and a hint of Old Bay seasoning, this casserole makes a hearty meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become softened and fragrant.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, heavy cream, sour cream, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Combine Shrimp and Vegetables: Stir the cooked shrimp and sautéed vegetables into the rice and cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution of all ingredients.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole to add a crunchy texture once baked.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Using cooked rice ahead of time helps ensure the casserole doesn’t become too watery.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Breadcrumbs are optional but recommended for added texture on top.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
