Baked Shrimp Casserole With Lemon Basil Cream Swirl And Toasted Panko Almond Topping

Looking for a seafood dish that’s both elegant and comforting? This Baked Shrimp Casserole with Lemon-Basil Cream Swirl and Toasted Panko-Almond Topping is a showstopper! It’s a delightful blend of succulent shrimp, a vibrant lemon-basil cream sauce, and a satisfyingly crunchy topping. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to impress. We’ve taken the classic shrimp casserole and elevated it with fresh flavors and a textural contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors in every bite!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredient Lineup

• Raw Shrimp (200g / 7oz, peeled and deveined): We’re using raw shrimp as the star of the show. Ensure they are thoroughly peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor. Larger shrimp (around 26-30 count per pound) work particularly well, as they hold their shape during baking.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (100g / 3.5oz): Panko breadcrumbs are essential for that signature crispy topping. Their larger flakes create a lighter, airier crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Sliced Almonds (50g / 1.75oz, toasted): Toasted sliced almonds add a delightful nutty flavor and extra crunch to the topping. Toasting them brings out their natural oils and enhances their aroma.
• Unsalted Butter (30g / 2 Tbsp, melted): Melted butter binds the panko and almonds together, creating a golden-brown and flavorful crust. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Onion (1 small, finely diced ≈70g / 2.5oz): Finely diced onion forms the aromatic base of the shrimp mixture, adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Minced garlic complements the onion, providing a pungent and savory note. Freshly minced garlic is always best for maximum flavor.
• Lemon (1, zest and juice): Both the zest and juice of a lemon are used to brighten the dish with a zesty citrus flavor. The zest adds aromatic oils, while the juice provides acidity.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup / 240ml): Heavy cream creates a rich and luxurious sauce. Its high fat content ensures a smooth and velvety texture.
• Chicken Broth (2 Tbsp / 30ml, halal-certified): Chicken broth adds depth of flavor to the lemon-basil cream sauce. Using a halal-certified broth ensures it meets dietary requirements.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 Tbsp / 15g): All-purpose flour acts as a thickening agent for the cream sauce, creating a luscious consistency.
• Olive Oil (2 Tbsp / 30ml): Olive oil is used to coat the shrimp mixture, helping the seasonings adhere and adding a subtle fruity flavor.
• Fresh Basil (2 Tbsp / 8g, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish): Fresh basil infuses the dish with a vibrant, herbaceous aroma and flavor. Finely chopping it releases its essential oils.
• Smoked Paprika (½ tsp / 2g): Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the shrimp mixture.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste): Seasoning is key! Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 Tbsp / 15g, grated, optional, halal-certified): Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor and a golden-brown color to the topping. Using a halal-certified Parmesan ensures it meets dietary requirements.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? Here are a few simple substitutions:

• Shrimp: You can substitute with scallops or lobster, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture won’t be as crispy.
• Sliced Almonds: Walnuts or pecans make excellent alternatives.
• Heavy Cream: Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as rich.
• Fresh Basil: While fresh is best, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil in a pinch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Baked Shrimp Casserole

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). Thoroughly grease a 20x20cm (8×8-inch) baking dish with melted butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving. Don’t skimp on the butter – a well-greased dish is key!
2. Prepare the Shrimp Mixture: Roughly chop the raw shrimp into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with the finely diced onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, all-purpose flour, and olive oil. Toss everything together until the shrimp is evenly coated. The flour helps to thicken the sauce as it bakes, and the olive oil ensures the shrimp stays moist.
3. Create the Lemon-Basil Cream Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, the remaining chopped basil, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside. The simmering process allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to reach the desired consistency.
4. Make the Panko-Almond Topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, toasted sliced almonds, and melted butter. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter. This creates a golden, crunchy topping that adds delightful texture to the casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Sprinkle half of the panko-almond mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a base layer of crunch. Spread the seasoned shrimp mixture in an even layer over the panko-almond base. Then, using a spoon, dollop spoonfuls of the lemon-basil cream sauce over the shrimp.
6. Swirl the Cream: This is where the magic happens! Use a skewer, a knife, or the back of a spoon to gently swirl the lemon-basil cream sauce into the shrimp mixture, creating beautiful green ribbons throughout. This not only looks stunning but also ensures every bite is infused with the bright, herbaceous flavor.
7. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining panko-almond mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the topping for added flavor and a beautiful golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cream is bubbling around the edges.
8. Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and the flavors to meld further. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a light drizzle of any leftover lemon-basil cream, and a pinch of fresh lemon zest for a vibrant finish.

Why Toasting the Almonds Matters

Toasting the sliced almonds isn’t just about adding another step; it’s crucial for maximizing their flavor and texture. Raw almonds can be a bit bland and have a slightly rubbery texture. Toasting them brings out their natural nutty sweetness and creates a satisfyingly crisp bite that complements the tender shrimp and creamy sauce beautifully. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, or bake them in the oven alongside the casserole during the last 10 minutes.

The Secret to a Creamy, Not Greasy, Sauce

The key to achieving a luscious, creamy sauce without it becoming overly greasy lies in the balance of ingredients and the gentle simmering process. Using heavy cream provides richness, while the chicken broth adds depth of flavor and helps to lighten the sauce. The flour acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the sauce coats the shrimp beautifully. Simmering the sauce gently, rather than boiling it, prevents the cream from separating and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this Baked Shrimp Casserole to your liking! If you’re not a fan of almonds, you can substitute them with pecans or walnuts. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture. You can also use different types of seafood, such as scallops or lobster, in place of the shrimp. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but the fresh basil truly elevates the flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Wine Pairings

This Baked Shrimp Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed asparagus, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread. For a delightful wine pairing, consider a dry Riesling or a Sauvignon Blanc. The bright acidity of these wines complements the lemon-basil flavors and cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the panko-almond topping just before baking.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. You can substitute these with gluten-free alternatives.
• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using.

This Baked Shrimp Casserole with Lemon-Basil Cream Swirl and Toasted Panko-Almond Topping is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible! Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later!

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