Baked Shrimp Casserole

I still vividly remember the magic of my first bite at a family gathering, an enchanting union of crispy golden crust and the tender embrace of perfectly seasoned shrimp. This dish, lovingly prepared by my aunt, was nothing short of a showstopper.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

1 pound (450 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup (100 grams) cheddar cheese, grated

1/4 cup (25 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated

Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

For the Topping:

1 cup (100 grams) breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

Preparation: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish.

Garlic Butter: In a cozy bowl, meld together the melted butter and garlic.

Shrimp Layering: Arrange the shrimp seamlessly on the baking dish.

Creamy Infusion: In another bowl, whisk the chicken broth, cream, thyme, paprika, and seasonings. Lavishly pour this over the shrimp.

Cheesy Delight: Evenly sprinkle both cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the creamy shrimp layer.

Crunchy Top: Blend the breadcrumbs with melted butter, ensuring a perfect coat. Sprinkle this over the casserole for that irresistible crunch.

Baking: Place the casserole in the oven. Let it bake until the top radiates a golden hue and the contents bubble with joy – about 20-25 minutes.

Finishing Touch: Once out of the oven, let it rest momentarily. Before serving, sprinkle the fresh parsley for that extra zest.