Baked Shrimp Casserole with Buttery Crumb Topping is a comforting dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy base, all covered in a crispy, golden crumb topping. The shrimp stay juicy and flavorful, while the buttery crumbs add just the right amount of crunch to every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to bring to a family gathering.
I love making this casserole because it feels like a warm hug on a plate. The buttery crumb topping always gets everyone’s attention—it’s the perfect balance between soft and crunchy. Plus, the shrimp cooks quickly, so this recipe comes together faster than you’d expect, which is a huge win in my book.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh garden salad to add some brightness to the richness of the casserole. It’s one of those dishes that you can make ahead and pop in the oven right before dinner, which makes busy evenings a little easier. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s a family favorite around here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work well here because they cook quickly and stay tender. You can use fresh or frozen—just thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. If you prefer, bay scallops can be a nice alternative for a change.
Butter: Butter adds rich flavor to both the sauce and crumb topping. If you need dairy-free, use a plant-based butter or olive oil, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a nice light crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work fine too. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese brings tang and creaminess. If you want a milder taste, Monterey Jack or mozzarella are good substitutes.
Old Bay Seasoning: This adds a classic seafood spice punch. If you don’t have it, mix paprika, celery salt, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar effect.
How Do I Get the Topping Perfectly Crispy and Golden?
The crumb topping is what makes this casserole really special. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Melt the butter fully so it coats the breadcrumbs evenly—this helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Use fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness in the crumbs.
- Evenly sprinkle the crumb mixture across the casserole so every bite gets some crunch.
- Bake uncovered so the moisture can escape, letting the topping become golden and crunchy instead of soggy.
Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 5 minutes to ensure the topping doesn’t burn, and remove it from the oven as soon as it looks golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy a perfect combination of creamy shrimp below and a crisp, buttery topping above.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – I find this size perfect for even baking and serving.
- Large skillet – for sautéing the vegetables and preparing the sauce; a wide pan helps everything cook evenly.
- Whisk – essential for smoothly mixing the milk and broth into the roux without lumps.
- Mixing bowls – to combine the breadcrumb topping and to prepare the filling before baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy with ingredients like milk, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- Knife and chopping board – for chopping onions, celery, and parsley easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked crab meat instead of shrimp for a richer seafood flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to give the dish a little extra kick.
- Stir in cooked mushrooms or spinach for added veggies and texture.
- Sprinkle some shredded Parmesan cheese over the topping before baking for a different savory twist.
Baked Shrimp Casserole with Buttery Crumb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (panko or fresh)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So in roughly 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, delicious casserole ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Casserole Dish and Veggies:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery. Cook gently until the vegetables are soft and clear, about 5 minutes.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking and stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until combined. Slowly whisk in the milk and broth, stirring until the sauce thickens smoothly, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add Flavor and Shrimp:
Stir in the Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts. Carefully add in the shrimp and lemon juice, mixing gently so the shrimp stay whole.
4. Assemble and Add Topping:
Pour the shrimp mixture into your casserole dish and spread it out evenly. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Combine this melted butter with the breadcrumbs and parsley, then sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the shrimp.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy and the shrimp turn opaque pink. Let the casserole rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges for a fresh, bright finish.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water, then pat dry to avoid extra moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it will be cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, taking care not to overcook the shrimp.
Can I Substitute the Breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use panko for extra crunch or even crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Just make sure to toss them with melted butter so they brown nicely in the oven.
