Let me introduce you to your new favorite crowd-pleaser: Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole. Imagine juicy, buttery shrimp nestled under a golden, aromatic breadcrumb stuffing, all baked together until bubbling and fragrant—this dish is pure comfort with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re prepping it for a celebratory family dinner or just want to upgrade your weeknight seafood routine, this casserole’s combination of texture and flavor is irresistible. It’s a recipe that brings people together around the table and never fails to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole comes from its straightforward ingredient list. Each item plays a crucial part: the shrimp brings succulent sweetness, the breadcrumbs add crunch, while the fresh herbs and citrus brighten everything up. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

1 1/2 pounds large shrimp: Peel, devein, and butterfly them—the star of your dish, delivering sweet, meaty bites in every forkful.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the shrimp stay juicy in the oven.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning both the shrimp and stuffing, enhancing every flavor note.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a gentle bite that perfectly complements seafood.
1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs: They soak up all the good juices, forming a crunchy and savory topping.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that pairs beautifully with seafood.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For brightness in the stuffing and a pop of color before serving.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: The citrus lifts the richness and makes every bite sing.
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood spice for that unmistakable, savory zing.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): It adds luxurious moisture and flavor to the stuffing.
3 cloves garlic (minced): The aromatic backbone—don’t skip it!
1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Sautéed quietly beneath the scenes, it gently sweetens the whole casserole.
1/4 cup dry white wine (optional): For a subtle hint of acidity and to gently perfume the stuffing.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Freshens everything up just before serving.

How to Make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by ensuring your shrimp are peeled, deveined, and butterflied so they’ll cook evenly and hold the stuffing. Arrange them in a greased baking dish, open side up—this keeps the stuffing in place and lets the shrimp soak up all the flavors.

Step 2: Drizzle and Season

Once the shrimp are arranged, drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle on the salt and black pepper. The oil helps with browning, and the seasoning ensures every mouthful is perfectly flavored from the inside out.

Step 3: Mix Up the Stuffing

In a mixing bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped onion, and white wine (if using). Stir everything together thoroughly until the stuffing holds together when gently pressed—it should be moist but not soggy.

Step 4: Stuff the Shrimp

Using a spoon, mound about a tablespoon of stuffing onto each butterflied shrimp. Be generous—you want every bite to have a good amount of that flavorful mix! Any extra stuffing can be scattered over the shrimp for even more texture.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the baking dish in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes. The shrimp will turn rosy-pink and the stuffing should become lightly browned and crisp on top. If you like, dot a bit of extra butter over the top before baking for an even richer finish.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is bubbling and golden, remove it from the oven and immediately garnish with more chopped fresh parsley. Let it cool for just a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle but everything stays warm and inviting.

How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens the casserole and adds a satisfying pop of color. For extra zing, serve lemon wedges on the side—just a gentle squeeze over the shrimp right before eating brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.

Side Dishes

Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, roasted asparagus, or a delicate angel hair pasta tossed simply with olive oil and herbs. For something extra cozy, try a buttery garlic bread to mop up every last bit of the flavorful stuffing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow-worthy dinner party, serve individual portions in small gratin dishes to give everyone their own bubbling mini casserole. Alternatively, plate the shrimp over a fresh spring salad for a lighter, modern twist. Don’t be afraid to showcase it at the center of your holiday table—it’s a stunning main that draws a crowd!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole, simply let it cool to room temperature, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors meld even further overnight, making leftovers a lunch to look forward to.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking—just assemble everything, cover well, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. Keep in mind that freezing after baking can impact the texture of the shrimp, so prepping ahead is your best bet!

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until just heated through—this keeps the stuffing crisp and the shrimp tender. If using a microwave, use short intervals and cover loosely to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use smaller or larger shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Large shrimp are ideal because they’re easy to stuff and stay juicy, but medium shrimp work well if that’s what you have. Adjust the stuffing amount and reduce bake time slightly if using smaller shrimp.

Is there a substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay on hand, try using a mix of celery salt, paprika, cayenne, and a touch of ground mustard. It won’t be exactly the same, but you’ll still get a wonderful seafood-friendly flavor.

Can I make Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole gluten free?

Yes! Swap the seasoned breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety or even crushed gluten-free crackers. Just make sure to season them well if they’re plain.

Do I have to use white wine in the stuffing?

The dry white wine adds a subtle flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer or replace it with a bit of seafood stock or even just a splash of water for moisture.

What are some ways to make the stuffing extra crisp?

For added crunch, try mixing half panko breadcrumbs with your seasoned breadcrumbs, or give the top an extra drizzle of melted butter just before baking. A quick broil at the end also crisps the topping beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s special enough for company but easy enough for a relaxed family meal, Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is the answer. The flavors are bright and satisfying, with just the right amount of indulgence. Don’t wait for a special occasion—gather your ingredients and give it a try. You’ll be hooked from the very first bite!