Shrimp Surprise Casserole
A flavorful shrimp casserole featuring fresh spinach, lemon, and spices, baked to perfection. Perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners seeking a comforting, savory dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- De-stem and wash the spinach.
- Chop the green onions and celery stalks.
- Melt the margarine in a bowl; mix with lemon juice, dash of Tabasco sauce, thyme, and garlic.
- Pour the margarine mixture over the chopped vegetables in a large casserole dish.
- Stir in bread crumbs, water, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the shrimp to the mixture and mix well.
- Sprinkle additional bread crumbs on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 400°F for approximately 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or dill instead of thyme. If you want a bit of heat, increase the Tabasco sauce to taste. You can substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken or a plant-based protein for a different twist. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. This Shrimp Surprise Casserole is versatile and can be adapted to your pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or iced tea. For a complete seafood experience, consider serving it alongside the Festive Shrimp Appetizer as an appetizer before the main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but for best texture, the oven method is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Surprise Casserole contains roughly 520 calories, with 5g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2207mg per serving (96% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the casserole. This will prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.
What can I do if I don't have green onions?
If you don't have green onions, you can substitute them with chopped shallots or regular onions. Use them sparingly, as their flavor is stronger. Alternatively, you can skip them altogether and still enjoy a flavorful casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and follow the baking instructions for a quick and easy meal.
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).