Name: Cheesy Shrimp Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup mayonnaise or sour cream; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ tsp paprika or cayenne (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

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This Cheesy Shrimp Bake is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that brings together juicy shrimp, melty cheese, and a savory, garlicky sauce all baked to golden perfection. It’s a low-effort, high-reward kind of meal that I love serving with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the cheesy goodness.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick to prepare but feels indulgent and impressive. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, while the cheese melts into a luscious, bubbly topping that makes every bite feel like a treat. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something warm and satisfying, but it’s also fancy enough to serve when I’m hosting guests. Cheesy Shrimp Bake

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large)
Garlic, minced
Unsalted butter
Cream cheese, softened
Mayonnaise or sour cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Lemon juice
Paprika or cayenne (optional for heat)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.
In a skillet, I melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about a minute until fragrant.
In a bowl, I mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise or sour cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
I gently fold in the shrimp and garlic butter until everything is well coated.
I spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
I bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the shrimp are cooked through.
I broil for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden cheesy crust (optional but worth it).
I garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake. It’s fast, filling, and fuss-free.

Variations

I sometimes add chopped spinach or artichokes for a shrimp-spinach dip twist.
For extra heat, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
I’ve made it with crab meat or a mix of seafood for a more decadent version.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals. I stir gently to keep the cheese smooth. Cheesy Shrimp Bake

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I thaw them first and pat them dry before adding to the mixture. I avoid using pre-cooked shrimp since they can become rubbery when baked.

What can I serve this with?

I love it with buttered pasta, over rice, or with crusty bread. It’s also great with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it ahead and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When ready, I bake it as directed—just add a few extra minutes if it’s cold.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low-carb and works well for a keto or gluten-free diet, especially served with veggies or cauliflower rice.

Can I use different cheese?

Absolutely. I’ve used Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican blend—all work well and melt beautifully.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Shrimp Bake is a rich, creamy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy enough for weeknights and indulgent enough for company. Whether I’m scooping it over pasta or dipping in with bread, every bite is comforting, cheesy, and loaded with shrimp flavor. It’s the kind of recipe I come back to whenever I need something quick, cozy, and delicious.