Shrimp Custard
A savory shrimp custard featuring tender shrimp, melted Swiss cheese, and green peppers baked in a creamy egg mixture, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain canned shrimp and rinse with cold water. Cut large shrimp in half.
- Remove crusts from bread and cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Place half the bread cubes in a well-greased 12 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Layer with shrimp, chopped green pepper, and half the grated Swiss cheese.
- Add remaining bread cubes and top with the rest of the cheese.
- In a bowl, beat eggs, powdered mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add milk to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered bread and shrimp.
- Sprinkle with paprika on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes until the custard is firm in the center.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a richer flavor. If you're looking to add some extra flavor, a touch of Old Bay seasoning can enhance the shrimp's taste. Ensure your bread is truly day-old for the best texture; fresh bread may make the custard too soggy.
Serving Suggestions
This Shrimp Custard is perfect for brunch or a light lunch. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Dilly Snackin' Crackers for a delightful crunch. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Custard contains roughly 328 calories, with 15g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (124% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% 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 cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw and cook them properly before using in this recipe. Cooked shrimp will yield the best results, as they will be tender and flavorful. If using raw shrimp, adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for green pepper?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute green pepper with diced red or yellow bell pepper for a sweeter taste. Alternatively, sautéed onions or mushrooms can add a different dimension to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference for a balanced flavor.
How do I know when the custard is done baking?
The custard is done when it is firm in the center and a knife inserted comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking, as it will continue to set slightly while cooling.
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).