Rice Shrimp Casserole
A hearty rice casserole combining tender shrimp, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheese, topped with paprika—perfect for comforting family dinners or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a moderate temperature.
- Mix cooked rice, cooked and peeled shrimp, diced onion, diced green pepper, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and grated cheese together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with additional grated cheese and paprika to taste.
- Bake in the oven until bubbly and the cheese has melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the diced onion and green pepper before mixing them into the casserole. You can substitute the shrimp with cooked crab or even chicken for a different take. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and cheese. Adjust the paprika to your taste, and don’t hesitate to add herbs like parsley or dill.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rice Shrimp Casserole alongside a fresh Ceasar Salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Mel'S Macaroni Salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a delightful brunch option, serve with a side of fruit salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating but may lose some texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Shrimp Casserole contains roughly 520 calories, with 15g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (63% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 726mg per serving (32% 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 mixture. This will help prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of your dish.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can opt for a homemade version using a roux with milk and sautéed mushrooms, or substitute with cream of chicken soup. For a vegetarian option, try cream of celery soup or a homemade white sauce with seasonings.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add a bit of heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the casserole mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper on top for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice preference!
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).