Mildred'S Seafood Casserole
A creamy seafood casserole featuring tender fish, shrimp, or crab, layered with bread and vegetables, topped with cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Oil or butter the bottom of a rectangular dish or pan; cut crusts from bread slices and line the bottom of the dish with bread slices.
- Sauté vegetables (red or green pepper, onions, celery) and combine with salad dressing and cooked fish, crab, or shrimp; spoon this mixture over the bread slices.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs (or Egg Beaters), milk, and mushroom or shrimp soup; pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Chill the casserole overnight or for 2 to 3 hours.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top and bake a few extra minutes until melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using leftover shrimp from Shrimp Dip (Hot Or Cold) or substituting the seafood with crab for a richer flavor. If you want a lighter version, opt for low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the custard mixture, which enhances the texture of the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delightful served with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete seafood-inspired dinner, consider serving alongside Ruth'S Shrimp Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mildred'S Seafood Casserole contains roughly 814 calories, with 22g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1537mg per serving (67% 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 seafood in this casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole. This prevents excess moisture that could affect the final texture. Just ensure that it's fully cooked before incorporating it into the dish.
What kind of bread works best for this recipe?
While white bread is traditional, you can also use whole grain or sourdough for added flavor and texture. Just make sure the bread is not too soft, as it needs to hold up under the custard mixture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).