Neptune Casserole
A creamy seafood casserole featuring shrimp, rice, and vegetables, baked to perfection and topped with cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped celery, onion, and bell pepper in margarine.
- Mix the sautéed vegetables with cooked shrimp, sour cream, cream of celery soup, chopped pimento, drained mushrooms, cooked rice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 11 x 7 inch casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 325°F for 40 minutes.
- Uncover and sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a bit more sour cream or even a splash of seafood broth. If you don't have shrimp, you can substitute with cooked crab or even shredded chicken for a different flavor profile. Using brown rice instead of white will add more fiber and a nuttier taste. Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Neptune Casserole with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, complements the dish beautifully. For a seafood-themed feast, consider pairing it with Cheesy Crab Dip as an appetizer to elevate your dining experience.
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 for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, covering with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Neptune Casserole contains roughly 360 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1847mg per serving (80% 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 recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before adding them to the casserole. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor. If they are precooked, reduce the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version by mixing equal parts of heavy cream and vegetable broth with sautéed onions and celery. This will keep the dish creamy and flavorful while providing a nice base for the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).