Shrimp Casserole Recipe

Shrimp casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that brings together tender shrimp, creamy sauces, and flavorful seasonings, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking for a dish to impress guests, this shrimp casserole offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of shrimp, creamy sauces, and seasonings creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or to adjust the spice level to your preference.
• Comfort Food: A hearty and warming dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups wide egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
• 1 (4.5 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained (optional)
• 1 cup crushed buttery round crackers
• 1 tablespoon cold butter, thinly sliced

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 3-quart casserole dish.(allrecipes.com)
2. Cook Shrimp and Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until opaque and pink, about 3 minutes. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour to create a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.(allrecipes.com)
4. Assemble Casserole: In the prepared casserole dish, layer the cooked noodles, peas, mushrooms (if using), and cooked shrimp. Pour the sauce over the top, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Add Topping: Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the casserole. Dot the top with thin slices of cold butter.(allrecipes.com)
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through, about 1 hour.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes(natashaskitchen.com, allrecipes.com)

Variations

• Cheesy Shrimp Casserole: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the sauce for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Shrimp Casserole: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to add heat.
• Vegetable Medley: Include additional vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Rice Substitute: Replace egg noodles with cooked rice for a different texture.(allrecipes.com)

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.

Is it necessary to cook the shrimp before baking?

Pre-cooking the shrimp ensures they are evenly cooked and prevents excess water from being released during baking.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of cracker crumbs for the topping?

Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even grated cheese can be used as alternatives.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free noodles and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use low-fat milk and cream, and reduce the amount of butter and cheese used.

What side dishes pair well with shrimp casserole?

A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread complement this dish nicely.

Can I add other seafood to this casserole?

Yes, scallops, crab meat, or chunks of white fish can be added for a seafood medley.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

Ensure there is enough sauce to coat all ingredients, and cover the casserole with foil if it starts to dry out during baking.

Is it okay to use canned shrimp?

While fresh or frozen shrimp are preferred for texture and flavor, canned shrimp can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain and rinse them well.

Conclusion

Shrimp casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors of shrimp and seasonings, makes it a family favorite. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

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