A creamy, cheesy, garlic-infused casserole loaded with juicy shrimp, tender broccoli, and bubbling melted cheese. This easy oven-baked recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner, a low-carb meal, or a protein-rich family favorite.
Prep time
15 min
Cook time
20–25 min
Servings
4
Ingredients
For the shrimp and broccoli
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the creamy cheese sauce
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For topping
- ¼ cup extra shredded mozzarella
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- A little extra Parmesan, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the broccoli
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets. Steam or boil for 2–3 minutes until bright green but still firm. Drain thoroughly.
2. Season the shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, chili flakes if using, and lemon juice.
3. Sauté the garlic and shrimp
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until beginning to turn pink. They will finish cooking in the oven.
4. Make the creamy cheese sauce
In a bowl, whisk softened cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and garlic powder. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk.
5. Assemble the casserole
Arrange the broccoli in a lightly greased baking dish. Add the shrimp and pour the creamy cheese mixture over everything. Gently stir to coat evenly, then sprinkle extra mozzarella on top.
6. Bake until golden and bubbly
Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles and the shrimp are fully cooked. For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully. The shrimp should reach 145°F (63°C) internally. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition information
Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings using the listed ingredients.
| Nutrient | Approximate amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430–520 kcal |
| Protein | 35–42 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10–15 g |
| Fat | 27–36 g |
| Fiber | 3–5 g |
| Sugar | 3–5 g |
| Saturated fat | 13–19 g |
| Sodium | 700–1,000 mg |
Nutrition varies by cheese brand, shrimp size, and the amount of salt used.
Nut information and allergen guide
Does this recipe contain nuts?
No nuts are included in the listed ingredients. However, check packaged ingredients and cross-contact warnings if preparing food for someone with a nut allergy.
| Allergen | Details |
|---|---|
| Peanuts | Not included |
| Tree nuts | Not included |
| Shellfish | Contains shrimp |
| Milk/dairy | Contains cream cheese, cream, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan |
| Gluten | Naturally gluten-free if all packaged ingredients are verified |
| Soy | Check cheese and other packaged ingredient labels |
| Eggs | Not included in the standard recipe |
| Sesame | Not included; check cross-contact warnings |
Important: This recipe is unsuitable for anyone with a shrimp or shellfish allergy. For a dairy-free version, use suitable dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.
Tips for the best results
- Avoid watery broccoli: Drain it thoroughly after steaming.
- Keep shrimp tender: Avoid overcooking them before baking.
- Grate cheese yourself: Freshly grated cheese often melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
- Add extra flavor: A little lemon zest, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes works beautifully.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with cauliflower rice, pasta, brown rice, or crusty bread.
- For a thicker sauce: Reduce the cream slightly or add a little extra Parmesan.
Storage and meal prep
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freezing is possible, but the creamy sauce may separate and the shrimp can become rubbery. Fresh is best.
- Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
- Food safety: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and avoid repeatedly reheating the entire casserole.
Questions and answers (Q&A)
Q1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water, then pat dry before seasoning.
Q2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain it thoroughly first. Excess water can make the cheese sauce thin.
Q3. Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
Yes. Substitute additional heavy cream with a little Parmesan to help thicken the sauce, or use a suitable thick cooking cream.
Q4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
It can fit many low-carb eating plans because shrimp and cheese are low in carbohydrates and broccoli provides fiber. Exact carbohydrate totals depend on the ingredients and portion size.
Q5. Can I add chicken instead of shrimp?
Yes, but cook the chicken fully before assembling the casserole. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q6. Why is my cheese sauce oily?
Excessive heat can cause cheese to separate. Use moderate heat, avoid prolonged baking, and choose cheeses that melt well.
Q7. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
You can blanch the broccoli, prepare the sauce, and season the shrimp ahead. For the best texture, assemble shortly before baking and keep everything refrigerated until needed.
Q8. What cheese combination tastes best?
Mozzarella provides stretch, cheddar adds a rich flavor, and Parmesan contributes a savory finish. Together, they create a delicious golden topping.
Q9. How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, extra chili flakes, or a little hot sauce to the shrimp seasoning.
Q10. What should I serve with cheesy garlic shrimp broccoli bake?
Try a crisp garden salad, lemon rice, roasted potatoes, cauliflower rice, or garlic bread.
Enjoy this creamy, garlicky, cheesy shrimp and broccoli bake! 🦐🥦🧀
