Baked Cheesy Shrimp: A Decadent and Easy Seafood Dish

Why You’ll Love Baked Cheesy Shrimp

Baked Cheesy Shrimp is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of rich, creamy, and savory flavors. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• Decadent and Indulgent: The creamy, cheesy sauce makes this dish feel luxurious.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even over pasta or rice.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Seafood lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike will love this dish.

Moreover, this dish is a great way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home, making it both delicious and economical.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Cheesy Shrimp

Follow this detailed guide to create the perfect Baked Cheesy Shrimp.

Step 1: Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tools:

• Oven-safe baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Additionally, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.

Step 2: Preparing the Shrimp

Now that everything is ready, let’s start preparing the shrimp:

1. Season the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Making the Cheese Sauce

While the shrimp is prepped, prepare the creamy cheese sauce:

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Cheeses: Gradually add the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Season: Stir in the paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

Once the shrimp and sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the dish:

1. Arrange the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
2. Pour the Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the shrimp.

Step 5: Baking

Now, let’s bake the shrimp to cheesy perfection:

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
2. Broil (Optional): For a golden top, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serving

Once the dish is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy:

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Serve: Serve the Baked Cheesy Shrimp as an appetizer or main course, with crusty bread, pasta, or rice on the side.

Tips for Making the Best Baked Cheesy Shrimp

To ensure your Baked Cheesy Shrimp turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp works best for this recipe.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent rubberiness.
• Customize the Cheese: Use your favorite cheeses, such as Gruyère or Gouda, for a different twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Baked Cheesy Shrimp

Even the best cooks can make mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overloading the Dish: Too much sauce can make the dish overly rich. Keep the ratios balanced.
• Skipping the Broiling Step: Broiling adds a golden, bubbly top that enhances the dish.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure the cream and cheeses are at room temperature for a smooth sauce.

FAQs About Baked Cheesy Shrimp

Q: Can I make Baked Cheesy Shrimp ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, but thaw and pat them dry before using to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?

A: Yes, as long as all ingredients are gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked Cheesy Shrimp is a decadent, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its succulent shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and golden top, it’s a meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious and indulgent dish. Don’t forget to share it with your loved ones—they’ll thank you for it!

Baked Cheesy Shrimp: A Decadent and Easy Seafood Dish

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 25 MINS

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Description

Indulge in a delectable seafood delight with our Baked Cheesy Shrimp recipe. This dish features succulent shrimp coated in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy yet impressive meal that will surely become a family favorite. Serve it as a main course or an appetizer for your next gathering!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Pinch of paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat shrimp in the mixture and arrange in the baking dish.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until shrimp are cooked and golden brown.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Baked Cheesy Shrimp offers a perfect combination of crispy texture and cheesy goodness. It’s quick to prepare and makes any meal special. Enjoy it hot out of the oven for the best experience!