Shrimp Asparagus Casserole
A creamy shrimp and asparagus casserole with Parmesan cheese, perfect for a comforting dinner. Lightly seasoned and baked to perfection, ideal for seafood lovers and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen asparagus until almost done, then drain.
- Melt the margarine in a saucepan.
- Stir in the flour and cook briefly.
- Gradually add the half-and-half, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese and blend well.
- Stir in the cooked shrimp until well combined.
- Place the cooked asparagus in a 9 x 9-inch casserole dish.
- Pour the sauce over the asparagus.
- Sprinkle with paprika on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the sauce. You can substitute the frozen asparagus with fresh asparagus, just adjust cooking time accordingly. If you don't have half-and-half, you can use a mix of milk and cream as an alternative. For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness or some diced red bell peppers for added color and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Shrimp Asparagus Casserole is best served warm and pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light Vegetable And Shrimp Salad for a refreshing contrast. A glass of chilled white wine can complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook as it may dry out the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 574 calories, with 21g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value) and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g 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 fresh asparagus instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh asparagus can be used in place of frozen. Just be sure to trim the ends and blanch them briefly before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender. Adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for shrimp if I have allergies?
If you have a shrimp allergy, you can substitute with cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein. Alternatively, consider using another seafood, such as crab or scallops, which would also work well in this casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).