The Creamiest Cheesy Shrimp Bake Recipe Ever Made

Baked seafood dishes with a cheesy shrimp bake can transport you straight to coastal comfort.

Crispy edges and melted cheese promise a mouthwatering experience.

Succulent shrimp nestled beneath a golden, bubbling surface create instant hunger.

Mediterranean and American culinary traditions merge in this simple yet elegant plate.

Each forkful delivers rich, creamy textures that dance across your palate.

Simple ingredients come together in a symphony of flavors no one can resist.

Dive into this delectable meal that screams pure deliciousness.

Why Cheesy Shrimp Bake Is a Crowd Pleaser

• Quick Seafood Delight: Prepare a mouth-watering shrimp dish that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner plans.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combines creamy, cheesy sauce with tender shrimp and crispy breadcrumb topping, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies all taste buds.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimizes kitchen cleanup with a simple skillet-to-oven cooking method, letting you spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying a delicious meal.
• Versatile Entertaining Option: Impressive enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for family meals, this dish works beautifully as a main course or elegant appetizer for various occasions.

Ingredients for Cheesy Shrimp Bake

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the primary protein for this delicious baked dish.

• Butter, Heavy Cream, Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy ingredients that provide rich flavor and smooth texture to the sauce.

• Chicken Broth, Garlic, Thyme, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Aromatic and flavorful components that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Breadcrumbs, Melted Butter: Crispy topping that adds a golden and crunchy texture to the baked shrimp.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds a fresh, green accent to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cheesy Shrimp Bake

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F (190C), getting ready for some serious seafood magic.

Step 2: Butter and Garlic Dance

Grab a large skillet and melt butter over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and let it sizzle until it releases its aromatic charm, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Create a Flavor-Packed Liquid

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Thyme
• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Bring this incredible mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors mingle and party.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Slide the shrimp into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start turning a soft pink. Carefully remove them and set aside.

Step 5: Cheese Transformation

• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Melt these cheeses until the sauce becomes silky smooth and irresistible.

Step 6: Reunite Shrimp and Sauce

Return the shrimp to the skillet and transfer everything to a baking dish, creating a delicious seafood canvas.

Step 7: Prepare Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this golden mixture evenly over the shrimp and sauce.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Watch for a gorgeous golden and crispy topping that’ll make your mouth water.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Shower the dish with fresh parsley and serve piping hot. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Bake

• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery consistency.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Lactose-free alternatives work great for dairy-sensitive diets.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like gruyere or monterey jack for unique flavor profiles. Sharp cheddar provides deeper taste complexity.
• Toast breadcrumbs beforehand for extra crunch and golden color. Panko breadcrumbs create an incredibly crispy topping that adds delightful texture.
• Add optional heat with red pepper flakes or cayenne for spice lovers. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can brighten the dish's overall flavor.

Flavor Variations of Cheesy Shrimp Bake

• Spicy Cajun Kick: Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning and add cayenne pepper for a zesty, bold flavor profile that brings New Orleans-style heat to the dish.
• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Swap thyme with oregano, add crumbled feta cheese, and top with chopped kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired seafood experience.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds and serve over roasted cauliflower instead of traditional bread-based topping, creating a keto-friendly alternative.
• Coconut Curry Spin: Incorporate coconut milk instead of heavy cream, add mild curry powder, and garnish with fresh cilantro for an exotic Southeast Asian-inspired rendition.

Best Pairings for Cheesy Shrimp Bake

• Pair Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the rich, creamy shrimp dish perfectly with their bright, zesty flavors that cut through the cheese and butter.
• Create Rustic Bread Side: Serve crusty sourdough or garlic bread to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce, adding texture and enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Match Fresh Green Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy, decadent shrimp bake, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich main course.
• Select Chilled Citrus Drink: Prepare a fresh lemonade or sparkling water with lemon wedges to cleanse the palate between bites and add a bright, tangy element to the meal.

How to Store Cheesy Shrimp Bake

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Transfer cooled shrimp bake to a freezer-safe container. Wrap securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place leftovers in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when thoroughly warm to prevent rubbery shrimp texture.

FAQs on Cheesy Shrimp Bake

• How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

The shrimp are ready when they start turning pink and slightly curl, which typically takes 2-3 minutes. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so watch them closely during cooking.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Just thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures better searing and prevents watery sauce.

• What type of breadcrumbs work best for the topping?

Panko breadcrumbs are ideal because they create a crispier, lighter topping compared to traditional breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will still work well.

Cheesy Shrimp Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 43-49 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Delightful Cheesy Shrimp Bake brings coastal comfort straight to your dinner table with succulent shrimp nestled in a creamy, golden cheese sauce. Rich Mediterranean flavors and quick preparation make this dish a perfect weeknight indulgence you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined

Dairy and Cheese:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
• 3/4 cup (85 grams) grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), preparing a welcoming environment for the upcoming seafood delicacy.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, releasing its rich golden essence.
3. Introduce minced garlic to the butter, sautéing until its aromatic fragrance permeates the kitchen, approximately 1 minute.
4. Incorporate chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper into the skillet, creating a harmonious liquid base.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to intertwine and develop depth.
6. Carefully add shrimp to the simmering liquid, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they transform into a soft pink hue. Promptly remove shrimp and set aside.
7. Reduce sauce, concentrating its flavors and creating a more intense liquid foundation.
8. Gradually fold in cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until a smooth, velvety sauce emerges.
9. Reintroduce shrimp to the cheesy sauce, then transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish.
10. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, creating a golden, crispy topping.
11. Evenly distribute the buttery breadcrumb mixture across the shrimp and sauce.
12. Bake for 15-20 minutes, watching for a golden, crisp surface and bubbling edges.
13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Check shrimp freshness by ensuring they smell clean and oceanic, not fishy or ammonia-like.
• Choose medium-sized shrimp for consistent cooking and best texture in this bake.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent over-seasoning.
• Select sharp cheddar for more intense cheese flavor that complements seafood perfectly.
• Pat shrimp dry before cooking to achieve better browning and prevent watery sauce.
• For gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs with almond meal or gluten-free panko.
• Customize heat by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne to spice up the dish.
• Substitute cream with half-and-half or whole milk for lighter, lower-calorie option.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 38-44 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 335 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 190 mg