Shrimp Or Chicken With Asparagus Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender shrimp or chicken with fresh asparagus, creamy Hollandaise sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 oz. butter, melted ⓘ
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 1/2 to 2 lb. chopped chicken ⓘ
- 1 1/2 to 2 lb. chopped shrimp or scallops ⓘ
- 3/4 cup milk ⓘ
- 1/4 cup whipping cream ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- Plain bread crumbs ⓘ
- 2 oz. butter ⓘ
- 1 1/2 to 2 lb. fresh asparagus, chopped ⓘ
- 2 envelopes Knorr Hollandaise sauce mix ⓘ
- 2 to 3 cups cooked rice ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in melted butter until transparent.
- Add chopped asparagus and saute for about 5 minutes.
- Add shrimp, chicken, or scallops and cook until not transparent, being careful not to overcook.
- In a bowl, mix Hollandaise sauce mix, egg yolks, milk, whipping cream, lemon pepper, and salt.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked seafood and bring to a boil.
- Place cooked rice in a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Pour the shrimp and asparagus mixture over the rice.
- Sprinkle heavily with Parmesan cheese, then evenly distribute plain bread crumbs.
- Dot the top with the remaining 2 ounces of butter.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using half the amount of butter or substituting with olive oil. If fresh asparagus isn't available, frozen asparagus can be used; just ensure it's thawed and drained. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or using seasoned breadcrumbs instead of plain. This dish also pairs wonderfully with Chicken And Fruit Salad For Two for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. It goes well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a side of Cream Of Cauliflower & Cheese Soup to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Or Chicken With Asparagus Casserole contains roughly 602 calories, with 16g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 952mg per serving (41% 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 other vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute asparagus with other vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so that the vegetables remain tender but not overcooked.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of plain bread crumbs. Additionally, check that your Worcestershire sauce and Knorr Hollandaise sauce mix are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Adjust other ingredients accordingly to maintain flavors.
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).