Elegant Lobster Or Shrimp Casserole
An elegant seafood casserole featuring tender lobster or shrimp in a rich, creamy mushroom gravy served over rice, perfect for special occasions or sophisticated dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In lightly salted water, cook lobster tails or shrimp for 5 minutes.
- Dice the cooked lobster meat and set aside.
- Melt butter in the top of a double boiler.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add hot milk to make 3 cups of gravy, stirring constantly.
- Slowly stir in the butter and flour mixture until smooth and well-thickened.
- Add canned mushrooms to the gravy and blend well.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow casserole.
- Cook 5 inches below the broiler until the sauce is bubbly.
- Serve over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it cooks. If you're short on time, pre-cooked lobster or shrimp can be used. You can also substitute the canned mushrooms for fresh ones if you prefer a more robust texture. If you want to lighten the dish, opt for a low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole over a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a satisfying meal. A side of steamed asparagus or a crisp green salad pairs beautifully to balance the richness of the dish. For a more casual approach, consider serving it with Garlic Nibbles for a delightful crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You may need to add a splash of milk to maintain the sauce's consistency while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elegant Lobster Or Shrimp Casserole contains roughly 245 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% 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 lobster or shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen lobster tails or shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This will help maintain their texture and flavor. Be mindful of the cooking time, as frozen seafood might require a little extra time to cook through.
Is there a vegetarian option available?
For a vegetarian version, consider using a mix of hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and artichokes in place of seafood. You can also use a plant-based protein to mimic the texture of lobster or shrimp while keeping the creamy sauce intact for a satisfying meal.
How do I know when the casserole is done cooking?
The casserole is done when the sauce is bubbly and has thickened, which typically takes around 15-20 minutes under the broiler. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. You want a nice golden top without burning the edges.
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).