Shrimp Thermidor(En Casserole Or Crepes)
Shrimp Thermidor combines tender shrimp and flavorful cheese sauce over rice, baked to perfection. A rich, creamy dish perfect for seafood lovers and special dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Prepare rice and keep warm.
- In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook shrimp and celery in 6 tablespoons of margarine, stirring constantly.
- Remove 6 shrimp for garnish.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in flour and mix until well blended.
- Gradually stir in half and half, seasoned salt, and seasoned pepper.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and shrimp are tender.
- Place rice in a casserole dish.
- Top with the shrimp mixture.
- Sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese and garnish with the reserved shrimp.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the dish is hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute the half and half with a mix of milk and cream. You can also add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, a blend of Gruyère and Parmesan works well for a gourmet twist. For those who prefer a bit of heat, a sprinkle of New Orleans Shrimp Spices For Boiling Shrimp can enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Shrimp Thermidor with a side of fluffy white rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish nicely. For an elegant touch, consider pairing it with a glass of Chardonnay. This recipe is also delightful when served in crepes for a unique twist, making it perfect for special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Thermidor(En Casserole Or Crepes) contains roughly 1202 calories, with 29g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2685mg per serving (117% 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, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture when sautéing. Adjust cooking time slightly if your shrimp are larger or smaller than the 1 lb. specified.
What can I substitute for the celery?
If you don't have celery on hand, diced bell peppers or shallots can be great alternatives. They will add a similar crunch and flavor profile. For a different taste, try using finely diced zucchini or leeks, which will also blend well with the shrimp and sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply assemble the dish with rice and cheese, then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or meal prepping.
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).