Shrimp Squares
Creamy shrimp squares with Swiss cheese, scallions, and a crunchy breadcrumb crust, perfect for entertaining or family dinners, offering rich flavors with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the bread crumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a bowl and mix well.
- Press the mixture evenly over the bottom of 4 greased 7 x 11-inch baking pans.
- Layer the Swiss cheese, scallions, and cooked shrimp over the crumb mixture and pat firmly.
- Beat the eggs in a large bowl.
- Add the cornstarch and beat until blended.
- Add the milk and beat until well mixed.
- Add the grated nutmeg and cayenne pepper to taste.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers in each pan.
- Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Cool for 20 minutes or longer.
- Cut each baked layer in each pan into 24 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk and reducing the amount of butter. You can substitute the Swiss cheese with Gruyère or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you don’t have scallions, finely chopped onions or shallots can be a great alternative. Ensure the shrimp is thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
These shrimp squares serve wonderfully as an appetizer or light main dish. Pair them with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, serve alongside a dipping sauce like a spicy remoulade or even a classic cocktail sauce, reminiscent of other seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. This helps maintain their texture and flavor, making them just as enjoyable as when freshly baked.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Squares contains roughly 4973 calories, with 203g protein, 658g carbohydrates, and 197g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (405% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (290% 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, you can use frozen cooked shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the layers, as excess moisture can affect the final texture of the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, you can omit the shrimp and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. This will add flavor and texture while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Can I prepare the shrimp squares in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the squares a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving for a fresh and warm dish. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings.
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).