Shrimp Casserole

A Shrimp Casserole is a perfect comfort food dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s a great way to incorporate shrimp into a filling meal with the creamy, cheesy goodness that casseroles are known for. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Shrimp Casserole that you can whip up in no time!

Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (optional, for added flavor and color)
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped (optional, for texture)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or you can use cream of celery soup)
• 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise (for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice (or you can use quinoa, couscous, or orzo for variety)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crumbled crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the Shrimp:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

1. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery (if using). Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

4. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream (or mayonnaise), milk, shredded cheese, paprika, and thyme. Stir well to combine.
2. Add the cooked shrimp and sautéed vegetables to the bowl, and then fold in the cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

1. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
2. If desired, top with crumbled crackers or breadcrumbs for added crunch and texture.

6. Bake the Casserole:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

7. Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Tips:

• For a Spicier Kick: You can add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the casserole mixture for an extra zing.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, peas, or corn for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
• Cheese Options: If you prefer a different cheese, try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the shrimp casserole with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also great on its own if you’re craving something cozy and filling!

This Shrimp Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, with tender shrimp that add a delicious seafood twist. Do you plan to serve it with any sides, or is it your main dish?