Salmon And Shells Casserole
A comforting salmon casserole with tender pasta shells, savory mushroom sauce, and crunchy bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the salmon, reserving the liquid, and set the salmon aside.
- Add enough water to the salmon liquid to make 1 cup.
- Pour the liquid into a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and water to the casserole and mix well.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta shells, salmon, sliced celery, and lemon juice.
- Mix the seasoned dry bread crumbs with melted butter or margarine.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the casserole.
- Sprinkle with paprika on top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour, until the shells are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your casserole, consider adding a teaspoon of dill or parsley along with the celery. If you don't have seasoned bread crumbs, plain ones can work, just add some dried herbs. For a creamier texture, you can mix in a splash of milk or cream with the soup. This dish is also versatile; feel free to substitute fresh salmon or other seafood if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Toss-Up Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a light white wine. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon And Shells Casserole contains roughly 500 calories, with 22g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (166% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like macaroni or penne. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as the pasta cooks in the casserole.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free options, or you can make your own using cornstarch as a thickener.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove the foil and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
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).