Cheesy Shrimp Bake

Introduction:

Indulge your taste buds in a symphony of flavors with our Cheesy Shrimp Bake recipe! Bursting with the ocean’s bounty, this dish combines tender shrimp, melty cheese, and aromatic seasonings for a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting weeknight meal, this Cheesy Shrimp Bake is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this irresistible dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the topping:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic.
3. Place the shrimp in the greased baking dish, arranging them in an even layer.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the cream mixture over the shrimp in the baking dish, ensuring they are covered.
6. Sprinkle the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the shrimp and cream mixture.
7. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well coated.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
11. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Kcal: 510 kcal | Servings: 4

Serving Tips:

1. Serve the Cheesy Shrimp Bake immediately after removing it from the oven to enjoy it while the cheese is hot and gooey, and the shrimp are tender and succulent.
2. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
3. Consider serving the Cheesy Shrimp Bake with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up the flavorful juices.
4. For a complete meal, pair the Cheesy Shrimp Bake with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the dish.
5. Serve the Cheesy Shrimp Bake in individual portions or as a family-style dish, depending on the occasion and preference of your guests.

Storage Tips:

1. If you have leftovers, allow the Cheesy Shrimp Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
2. Store any leftover Cheesy Shrimp Bake in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
3. When reheating the leftovers, place them in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
4. Avoid freezing the Cheesy Shrimp Bake, as the texture of the shrimp and cheese may change when thawed and reheated.
5. If you’re making the Cheesy Shrimp Bake ahead of time, you can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking as directed in the recipe.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can be a convenient option for this recipe. Thaw the shrimp completely before using, and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning and baking.
2. Can I customize the vegetables in the Cheesy Shrimp Bake? Certainly! Feel free to customize the vegetable selection to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. You can add or substitute vegetables such as zucchini, yellow squash, mushrooms, or asparagus for a delicious variation.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time for a party or gathering? While it’s best to serve the Cheesy Shrimp Bake fresh from the oven to enjoy its optimal flavor and texture, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can season the shrimp and chop the vegetables in advance, then assemble the dish just before baking to save time.
4. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan cheese are classic choices for a cheesy topping, you can experiment with different cheese blends to add variety to the dish. Try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère cheese for a unique flavor profile.
5. Is this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies? If you have lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, you can adapt the recipe to use lactose-free or dairy-free cheese alternatives. There are many non-dairy cheese options available that melt well and can provide a similar cheesy texture and flavor to the dish.