Baked Shrimp Cheese Puff
A savory baked shrimp and cheese puff casserole featuring tender shrimp, sharp cheese, and toasted bread, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter the bread and cut into small cubes.
- Place half of the bread cubes into a buttered 8 x 3-inch casserole dish.
- Spread half of the shrimp over the bread and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, shrimp, and cheese.
- Beat the eggs slightly, then add seasonings and milk.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with paprika.
- Bake for 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as adding mozzarella for a creamier texture. If you prefer, cooked shrimp can be used instead of uncooked, just reduce the baking time slightly. You can also substitute the bread with gluten-free options to accommodate dietary needs. Adding a touch of hot sauce to the egg mixture can give it a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for brunch or a casual dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the rich flavors. A light vinaigrette can complement the dish nicely. For a heartier meal, pair it with a side of Cajun Pecan Catfish for a taste of American recipes that highlight seafood.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the baked shrimp cheese puff in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain its texture, preventing it from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Shrimp Cheese Puff contains roughly 775 calories, with 21g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1370mg per serving (60% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before layering. This will help prevent excess moisture from making the dish soggy. If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce the baking time to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for the sharp cheese?
If sharp cheese is not available, you can use medium cheddar or a combination of mozzarella and parmesan for a milder flavor. Experimenting with different cheese blends can yield delicious results, so feel free to get creative according to your taste.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. For extra protein, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors of the vegetables used.
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).