Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with this Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Casserole? This dish has a way of stealing the spotlight at any gathering, and trust me, it’s not just because of its name! I first whipped this up for a cozy dinner party with friends, and let’s just say, I received a lot of “Where did you get this recipe?” questions. It’s become a staple in my kitchen and a go-to dish whenever I want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
What makes this casserole truly special is the perfect combination of a creamy baked potato base layered with juicy shrimp and crunchy bacon – it’s like all your favorite comfort foods in one dish. Plus, it’s easy to make, and I can throw a few glasses of wine back while waiting for it to bake! I mean, who can resist melted cheddar cheese? So, let’s dive right into the deliciousness!
What’s in Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Casserole?
– Baked Potatoes: The star of this casserole! I prefer large, fluffy russet potatoes because they have the perfect texture for baking and mashing.
– Shrimp: I use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. If you love the ocean’s bounty, fresh shrimp is always an excellent choice!
– Bacon: Oh, bacon! Chopped into bits, it adds that nice crispy crunch that pairs so well with the creaminess of the casserole.
– Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings the extra zing to the dish. I like to use extra sharp cheddar for that punch of flavor.
– Sour Cream: This gives the casserole its creamy texture and a touch of tanginess. It’s a must-have!
– Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh, mild flavor and bring a pop of color – they’re great for garnishing, too!
– Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Paprika: These spices give the dish its flavorful kick without any hassle.
– Salt and Pepper: Basic, but essential! Season to taste for the best flavor.
– Olive Oil: A splash of this helps cook the shrimp and bacon beautifully.
– Milk: Optional, but it does lend a lovely creaminess to the potato mixture. I often use it when I want that extra comfort food vibe!
Is Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Casserole Good for You?
This dish definitely has some health benefits, but like any delicious casserole, a little moderation goes a long way! Let’s break it down:
– Shrimp: A fantastic source of protein and low in calories, shrimp adds a nutritional punch to this dish. It’s loaded with vitamins D and B12!
– Baked Potatoes: Rich in fiber and essential nutrients like potassium, they are filling and can keep you satisfied for hours.
– Bacon: While it can add flavor, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its sodium and fat content.
– Sour Cream: It adds creaminess but be mindful of serving sizes if you’re watching your fat intake.
Enjoying this dish occasionally is perfectly fine, especially because comfort food is best savored with friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baked potatoes
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup milk (optional for creaminess)
This recipe generously serves around 4-6 hungry souls.
How to Make Loaded Shrimp Baked Potato Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. To start, prick your potatoes with a fork and bake them in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until they’re tender. Let them cool for a few minutes, then peel and cube them.
3. While the potatoes are baking, chop your bacon and cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet but keep those delicious drippings!
4. In the same skillet, toss in the shrimp, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Take them off the heat and set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine your cubed potatoes, crispy bacon, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and milk (if you want that extra creamy goodness). Mix gently until everything is well combined.
6. Pour the potato mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
7. Lay those succulent shrimp on top and finish it off with the remaining cheddar cheese.
8. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Finally, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with additional chopped green onions before digging in!
Comforting Tips for Your Casserole Craving
– If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a touch of spice with some diced jalapeños or swap out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an added kick.
– Leftovers (if you have any) reheat beautifully in the microwave. Just add a dash of milk to keep it creamy!
– Feel free to customize by adding in other veggies like bell peppers or spinach. It’s all about making it your own!
I can’t emphasize enough how good this casserole is—trust me, your taste buds will thank you! It’s perfect for a chill weeknight dinner or for meal prepping and has never failed to impress guests. So, grab those ingredients and get cooking! I’m excited to see how yours turns out. Let me know all about your experience! Happy cooking!
