Sharp Sea Shells
A cheesy, savory seafood casserole featuring tender sea shells layered with sharp cheddar, creamy soups, and vegetables, baked to perfection for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix grated sharp Cheddar cheese, tomato soup, and cream of mushroom soup together in a bowl.
- Chop the small onion and green pepper into small chunks.
- Saute the chopped onion and green pepper in butter until softened.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the soup mixture and stir well.
- Cook the large sea shells according to package directions until just tender, then drain well.
- Add the cooked sea shells to the soup and vegetable mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbling and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the soup mixture. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with a milder cheese if preferred. If you're short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can save you prep work. For a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables. This dish can be customized with leftover proteins like chicken or shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing, to balance the richness of the cheese and soup. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make for excellent accompaniments as well. For a complete meal, consider serving with sides like steamed vegetables or a refreshing coleslaw. For dessert, try serving with Mama E'S Pancakes for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Sharp Sea Shells should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, then heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sharp Sea Shells contains roughly 743 calories, with 17g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire recipe in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and heat in the oven. You may need to adjust the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade roux with milk and sautéed mushrooms, or opt for cream of chicken soup. For a vegetarian option, try using a store-bought vegan cream soup or simply increase the amount of tomato soup for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the Sharp Sea Shells after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).