John Davis' Shrimp Macaroni Casserole
A creamy shrimp macaroni casserole with melted American cheese, tender shrimp, and savory vegetables, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and chopped celery in butter until tender.
- Add milk, flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and grated American cheese to the mixture and cook until thickened.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the cheese sauce for topping.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, cooked and peeled shrimp, sautéed vegetables, and sliced hard-boiled eggs with the remaining cheese sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish, sprinkle the reserved cheese sauce on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating some garlic or a splash of white wine while sautéing the vegetables. For a different protein option, you could substitute the shrimp with crab meat for a twist reminiscent of Cheesy Crab Feast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal, and consider pairing it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to the beloved Crunchy Tuna Dip, where everyone can enjoy a taste of seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of John Davis' Shrimp Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 614 calories, with 16g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (157% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1816mg per serving (79% 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 casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the casserole. This ensures they don’t release excess moisture during baking, which could affect the casserole's consistency.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
If you don't have American cheese, you can use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a similar melty texture and flavor. Alternatively, a creamy cheese like fontina or gouda can provide a delightful richness as well.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using whole grain macaroni and reducing the amount of butter. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value while maintaining great flavor.
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).