Ham And Shrimp Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender shrimp, savory ham, and broccoli in a creamy sauce, topped with Parmesan, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp butter
- 3 medium onions, finely chopped ⓘ
- 4 Tbsp flour
- 3 cups milk ⓘ
- salt and freshly ground pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 lb cooked ham, diced or julienne ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp Madeira or Marsala wine ⓘ
- 1/2 to 3/4 lb small frozen cooked shrimp, thawed ⓘ
- 1 bunch broccoli florets, cooked tender-crisp ⓘ
- 3 cups cooked rice ⓘ
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp parsley, finely chopped ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan and add the finely chopped onions.
- Cook on low heat until the onions are soft.
- Turn off the heat; sprinkle in flour and mix well.
- Gradually stir in milk, salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Return to the heat and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham instead of regular ham. You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken or scallops if desired. If you prefer a lighter dish, swap out the butter for olive oil and use low-fat milk. Adding some sautéed garlic or a pinch of cayenne can enhance the taste further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with the finely chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a Spinach And Tomato Salad for a complete meal. For extra crunch, consider serving with a side of crusty bread or a light vegetable side like steamed green beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Shrimp Casserole contains roughly 449 calories, with 14g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2014mg per serving (88% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the rice?
If you prefer a different base, quinoa or couscous can be excellent alternatives to rice. For a low-carb option, consider using cauliflower rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the base you choose.
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).