Easy Shrimp Casserole
A hearty and flavorful shrimp casserole combining tender cooked shrimp, fragrant rice, and a seasoned tomato base. The dish features aromatic herbs and spices, creating a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings that enjoy bold, savory flavors with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shrimp ⓘ
- 1/3 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons margarine ⓘ
- 2 cloves minced garlic ⓘ
- 1 cup raw white rice ⓘ
- 1 large can tomatoes, not drained ⓘ
- 2 cups chicken bouillon ⓘ
- 1 bay leaf, broken into small pieces ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon marjoram ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon chili powder ⓘ
- dash of cayenne pepper ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a baking dish.
- Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the margarine with butter or olive oil. If you prefer a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. To enhance the dish, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a heartier option, serve with roasted potatoes or a side of quinoa. It’s a versatile dish that complements various sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a little water can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Shrimp Casserole contains roughly 366 calories, with 9g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1293mg per serving (56% 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 fresh shrimp instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh shrimp, but be sure to cook them before adding them to the casserole. This will ensure they are fully cooked and tender by the end of the baking process.
What can I substitute for chicken bouillon?
You can substitute chicken bouillon with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Alternatively, homemade chicken stock will provide a richer flavor, just adjust the seasoning as necessary.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider adding more chili powder or a chopped jalapeño. You could also incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce or increase the cayenne pepper to suit your 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).