Low Carb Creamy Shrimp Casserole

Shrimp casserole is a comforting classic, but it’s often loaded with carbohydrates. This low-carb creamy shrimp casserole recipe delivers all the deliciousness you crave without the guilt. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, and it’s so easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Shrimp Casserole

This casserole is more than just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and fits perfectly into a low-carbohydrate lifestyle. Here are a few reasons why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe:

• Low-Carb Friendly: Naturally, this recipe significantly reduces the carb content compared to traditional versions by using low-carb thickeners and omitting high-carbohydrate ingredients like pasta or breadcrumbs in the main dish.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. From prep to table, you’re looking at around 45 minutes.
• Satisfying and Flavorful: The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and flavorful seasonings create a truly satisfying and delicious meal.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices. Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes!

Ingredients for a Delicious Low-Carb Casserole

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. Using high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of the final dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shrimp: 1.5-2 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp (fresh or frozen, thawed). Smaller to medium shrimp tend to work best.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. This forms the creamy base of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Adds richness and helps create a luscious sauce.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, divided. Used for sautéing and topping.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced. Essential for flavor.
• Onion: ½ medium, chopped. Adds depth and sweetness.
• Celery: 1 stalk, chopped. Provides a subtle crunch and flavor.
• Xanthan Gum: ½ teaspoon (or other low-carb thickener, such as cream cheese). Helps thicken the sauce without adding carbs.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded. For a melty, cheesy topping.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated. Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon. Brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
• Old Bay Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A classic seafood seasoning.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Optional Add-ins: Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or other low-carb vegetables.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Low-Carb Shrimp Casserole

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a delectable low-carb shrimp casserole that everyone will love:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle in the xanthan gum (or your preferred low-carb thickener) gradually, whisking constantly to prevent clumps. Continue to cook for a minute or two until the sauce has thickened slightly.

5. Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, or they will become rubbery.

6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese. Dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, cut into small pieces.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly browned.

8. Let it Rest: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.

Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions

To elevate your low-carb shrimp casserole even further, consider these tips and serving suggestions:

• Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is always a treat, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them along with the onion and celery.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Garlic Lovers Rejoice: If you’re a garlic fanatic, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole with a side of cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or a green salad for a complete and satisfying low-carb meal. You can also serve it as an appetizer with low-carb crackers or vegetables for dipping.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Add a few minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for xanthan gum?

You can use other low-carb thickeners like glucomannan powder, psyllium husk powder, or even a little extra cream cheese. Start with a small amount and add more as needed until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. You can also use spicy cheeses like pepper jack.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them along with the onion and celery.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Do not overcook the shrimp. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. They will continue to cook in the oven.

What kind of cheese is best for this casserole?

Mozzarella and parmesan are a classic combination, but you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, or pepper jack.

Can I freeze this casserole?

While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The sauce might become a little grainy. If you choose to freeze, let it cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.