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Shrimp Casino holds a special place in my heart—it was the star appetizer at my family’s holiday gatherings. The combination of succulent shrimp, crispy breadcrumbs, and zesty lemon-garlic butter brings back cherished memories. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Casino
- A nostalgic dish that brings the flavors of classic American seafood to your table.
- The perfect balance of savory, buttery, and citrusy notes in every bite.
- Quick and straightforward to prepare, yet impressive in presentation.
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main course.
- A delightful way to enjoy shrimp that’s both comforting and elegant.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Appetizer |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 35 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients For The Shrimp Casino
- Shrimp – the star of the dish; use fresh or frozen for best flavor.
- Bell Peppers – adds a sweet crunch; choose a mix of colors for visual appeal.
- Onion – provides a savory base; yellow or red onions work well.
- Garlic – enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic is best.
- Butter – adds richness; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Breadcrumbs – creates a crispy topping; use panko for extra crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese – adds a savory depth; freshly grated is ideal.
- Lemon Juice – brightens the dish; fresh-squeezed is always better.
- Parsley – for garnish; fresh parsley adds a pop of color.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Shrimp Casino
Get ready to whip up a delightful Shrimp Casino that will impress your guests!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Peel and devein 1 pound of fresh shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped green bell pepper, and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Stir in 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously over each shrimp.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, then serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Casino!
Pro Tips for Making the Shrimp Casino
- Opt for large, fresh shrimp to ensure a juicy and flavorful result.
- Marinate the shrimp briefly in lemon juice and garlic to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier topping.
- Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
- Broil the dish for the last 2 minutes of baking to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
How to Serve The Shrimp Casino
Delight in these creative serving suggestions for your shrimp casino:
- Serve on a bed of crisp lettuce for a fresh crunch.
- Pair with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
- Accompany with a tangy cocktail sauce for dipping.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Offer alongside toasted baguette slices for a satisfying crunch.
- Present in mini phyllo cups for an elegant touch.
- Serve with a side of creamy avocado dip for a rich contrast.
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad for a light meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Let shrimp casino cool completely at room temperature before storing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
- Keep refrigerated and enjoy within 2 days for best flavor and texture.
- Reheat in the oven for a crisp topping—microwaving may soften the breadcrumb layer.
Freezing
- Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as shrimp can become rubbery and the topping soggy.
- If needed, freeze only the uncooked breadcrumb topping separately in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
- Avoid freezing the assembled or baked dish for best results.
Reheating
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the crispy topping.
- Always ensure shrimp is heated thoroughly but not overcooked to maintain a tender bite.
FAQs
What can I use instead of pork in the Shrimp Casino recipe?
You can easily substitute pork with turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. These options provide a similar smoky flavor without using pork, making your dish suitable for various dietary preferences.
Can I make Shrimp Casino ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and topping mixture in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble them right before baking for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Shrimp Casino?
Shrimp Casino pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. You can also serve it as part of a seafood platter for a delightful appetizer spread.
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked properly?
Cooked shrimp should be pink and opaque, curling into a C shape. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the shrimp tough. Keep an eye on them while baking for perfect results!
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Casino is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Whether you’re introducing it to your family for the first time or recreating a beloved tradition, this recipe is sure to delight. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Happy cooking!
For more other delicious recipes, check out this link !!
Shrimp Casino
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and devein the shrimp. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green and red bell peppers, and chopped onion.
- Stir in melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously over each shrimp.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
