Asparagus And Shrimp Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender asparagus, shrimp, chicken, and cheese, topped with crushed Ritz crackers. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Drain canned asparagus, water chestnuts, sliced olives, and mushroom pieces.
- Cook chicken and shrimp until done; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diluted cream of asparagus soup, sliced water chestnuts, sliced olives, mushroom pieces, shredded cheese, lemon pepper, and white pepper.
- Add cooked chicken and shrimp to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or using shrimp substitutes like crab meat. If you can't find Monterey Jack and Colby cheese, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well. To enhance the flavor, add minced garlic or a sprinkle of paprika to the mixture. Make sure to use fresh lemon pepper for a brighter taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or a side of rice for added heartiness. For a delightful touch, serve with a wedge of lemon to brighten the flavors. Consider pairing it with a chilled white wine for an elegant dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as it may dry out the shrimp and chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus And Shrimp Casserole contains roughly 672 calories, with 37g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (74% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1731mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help prevent excess moisture in the casserole. Frozen shrimp can be a convenient option and are often just as flavorful.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going into the oven straight from the fridge. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
What can I substitute for cream of asparagus soup?
If you don't have cream of asparagus soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce as a substitute. To make a simple white sauce, melt butter, add flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Season to taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).