Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Shrimp Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together tender shrimp, rice, and vegetables in a cheesy, baked casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you want to make something hearty yet elegant. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, this casserole combines rich textures and savory seafood goodness in every bite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
shrimp (peeled and deveined)
cooked white rice
onion
celery
green bell pepper
garlic
cream of mushroom soup
mayonnaise
cheddar cheese
butter
salt
black pepper
paprika
breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the onion, celery, green bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
Add the shrimp and cook until just pink, then remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables and shrimp, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese. Sprinkle paprika and breadcrumbs on top if desired.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Substitute cream of celery or cream of shrimp soup for a different flavor profile.
Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a smoky, meaty touch.
Include a splash of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
Use brown rice or wild rice for a nuttier texture.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake at 325°F until heated through.
You can also freeze the casserole (before or after baking) for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but you can also use mozzarella or a cheese blend.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
Is it very rich?
It’s creamy and satisfying, but you can lighten it up with low-fat mayo or soup.
Can I use fresh vegetables?
Absolutely, just be sure to sauté them until tender.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soup and breadcrumbs or omit the topping.
Can I add other seafood?
Yes, crab or scallops make excellent additions.
Can I make it spicy?
Add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce to taste.
What can I serve with it?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time if needed.
Conclusion
Shrimp Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your taste, and always satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a comforting meal, this casserole is sure to impress.
PrintShrimp Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A creamy, comforting shrimp casserole layered with egg noodles, peas, mushrooms, and topped with buttery cracker crumbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cups wide egg noodles
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
- 4.5 oz can sliced mushrooms, drained (optional)
- 1 cup crushed buttery round crackers
- 1 tbsp cold butter, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Lightly grease a 3‑quart casserole dish.
- Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add shrimp, simmer until opaque and pink, about 3 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon.
- Return water to a rolling boil; cook noodles until tender (about 8 minutes); drain.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat, stir in flour and cook briefly. Remove from heat and whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Layer noodles, peas, mushrooms (if using), and shrimp in casserole dish. Pour sauce over top, sprinkle with crushed crackers and dot with cold butter slices.
- Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, until topping is crisp and golden. Serve warm.
Notes
- Optional mushrooms add extra flavor and texture.
- Use gluten-free crackers or flour to make it gluten‑free.
- Let rest 5 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 recipe
- Calories: 263
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 614mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 126mg
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