Shrimp And Rice Au Gratin
A creamy and flavorful shrimp and rice au gratin featuring cheese, curry, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan and add flour, blending well.
- Gradually add milk and cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add half of the American cheese, salt, curry powder, and a dash of paprika; cook until the cheese is melted, stirring constantly.
- Clean the cooked shrimp and cut them in half.
- Mix the shrimp with cooked rice and the prepared sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with bread crumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don’t have American cheese, a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can work well. To enhance flavor, add sautéed onions or bell peppers to the shrimp and rice mixture. Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs to prevent burning; you can cover the dish with foil during baking if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully with the shrimp and creamy sauce. For a fun twist, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or browse more seafood recipes for additional ideas.
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 (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Rice Au Gratin contains roughly 1177 calories, with 29g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen shrimp works great in this recipe. Just ensure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using. This will help achieve the best texture and prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This shrimp and rice au gratin can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat portions as needed for a quick and satisfying meal during the week.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
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).