Noel Shrimp Bake
A hearty shrimp bake with mushrooms, rice, and vegetables, baked in buttery goodness. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests craving comforting seafood flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook mushrooms in butter just until tender.
- Combine cooked mushrooms, shrimp, rice, green pepper, onion, celery, pimento, tomatoes or tomato soup, salt, and chili powder.
- Place the mixture in a greased 2-quart casserole.
- Pour 1/2 cup butter over the mixture.
- Bake at 300°F for 50 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms. You can substitute the shrimp with cooked crab or even chicken if desired. Using brown rice instead of white adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili powder or include some diced jalapeños in the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or with a side of garlic butter for dipping. For a complete meal, you might also enjoy it with a refreshing fruit salad or homemade coleslaw, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Noel Shrimp Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, approximately 20-30 minutes. For microwave heating, cover the dish and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noel Shrimp Bake contains roughly 536 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1944mg per serving (85% 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, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture. If using frozen, consider sautéing them briefly in a pan to remove excess moisture before adding to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with foil. 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.
What should I do if I don’t have fresh mushrooms?
If fresh mushrooms aren’t available, you can substitute with canned mushrooms or even skip them altogether for a lighter dish. Alternatively, rehydrate dried mushrooms in warm water for about 20 minutes and use them for added texture and 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).