Shells And Shrimp
Creamy shrimp and shell pasta combine savory flavors with dill and garlic salt, making a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Grease a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
- In a saucepan, melt margarine over medium heat.
- Add dried dill weed, garlic salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
- Stir in condensed cream of shrimp soup until smooth.
- Add frozen cooked bay shrimp to the sauce; cook until heated through.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp sauce and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the shrimp sauce while it cooks. If you prefer a lighter version, swap margarine for olive oil. You can also use fresh shrimp instead of frozen; just adjust the cooking time. For added texture, mix in some chopped spinach or substitute regular breadcrumbs with panko for a crunchier topping.
Serving Suggestions
This Shells and Shrimp dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of Chardonnay complements the flavors nicely. For a heartier option, serve alongside garlic bread or consider pairing it with a flavorful Shrimp Parmesan for a delightful seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until warm, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shells And Shrimp contains roughly 64 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% 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 a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While medium shell pasta is recommended, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp sauce for a kick. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning can enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.
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).