Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Intensity: Beginner-Friendly
Servings: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Course
Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for approximately 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Add:
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix well to combine all flavors.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Stir in:
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Fold the shrimp into the cheese mixture. Stir gently to coat every piece evenly with the creamy sauce.
Because the shrimp will continue cooking in the oven, avoid overcooking them during this step.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the shrimp and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Spread it evenly across the dish using a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining:
- ½ cup cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes.
The casserole is ready when:
- The cheese is melted.
- The top is golden brown.
- The shrimp are fully cooked and opaque.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for added color and flavor.
Serve hot and enjoy.
Chef’s Tips
Choose Quality Shrimp
Fresh or frozen shrimp work equally well. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Add Vegetables
For additional nutrition without significantly increasing carbs, consider adding:
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower rice
Extra Flavor
For a richer flavor profile, add:
- Crispy bacon bits
- Smoked paprika
- A dash of cayenne pepper
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
What to Serve with Keto Shrimp and Cheese Casserole
This casserole pairs perfectly with several low-carb side dishes:
- Roasted asparagus
- Garlic butter green beans
- Cauliflower mash
- Fresh garden salad
- Zucchini noodles
These sides complement the creamy richness of the casserole while keeping the meal keto-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low in carbohydrates
- High in protein
- Rich and creamy texture
- Family-friendly flavor
- Quick preparation
- Perfect for meal prep
- Naturally gluten-free
- Keto-approved ingredients
The creamy cheese sauce combined with tender shrimp creates a comforting dish that feels indulgent while remaining aligned with ketogenic dietary goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes. If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce the baking time by about 5 minutes to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar and Parmesan provide excellent flavor, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère can also be used.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. The ingredients are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein, making this casserole ideal for keto meal plans.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 445
- Protein: 32g
- Total Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 245mg
- Sodium: 760mg
- Potassium: 310mg