Shrimp Opelousas
Creamy shrimp and vegetable casserole with cheesy topping, flavorful with peppers, onions, and a touch of spice, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion and bell pepper in margarine until tender.
- Add shrimp to the sautéed vegetables and cook until just pink.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and Cheez Whiz cheeses until well combined.
- Add cayenne pepper to taste and mix everything thoroughly.
- Combine the shrimp mixture with cooked noodles in a casserole pan.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the shrimp mixture. You can substitute fresh shrimp with frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. If you're looking for a little heat, feel free to add more jalapeno Cheez Whiz or even some diced jalapenos. This dish is reminiscent of other American recipes like Shrimp Artichoke Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to serve as a main course, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also goes well with steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside a refreshing Easy Seafood Salad for a satisfying seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to do so in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which helps maintain the texture of the noodles and shrimp. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Opelousas contains roughly 1017 calories, with 23g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (145% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 964mg per serving (42% 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 different types of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta types like penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose. The key is to have a pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce well, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and combine it with the noodles, then store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just cover the casserole with foil to keep it fresh. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Cheez Whiz?
If you're looking for a substitute for Cheez Whiz, you can use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Melt them together before adding to the shrimp mixture for a similar creamy consistency. Alternatively, store-bought cheese sauce can also work, but keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly from the original recipe.
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).