Wild Rice Shrimp Casserole
A savory shrimp and wild rice casserole infused with green peppers, onions, and melted American cheese, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dry wild rice ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped onions ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice ⓘ
- 2 cups cooked wild rice ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup cubed American cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 to 1 pound cooked shrimp ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of wild and brown rice. If American cheese isn't available, cheddar or a cheese blend can work well. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. To save time, use pre-cooked shrimp or frozen wild rice that you can easily thaw before mixing. This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread for a comforting dinner option. For a more festive touch, serve alongside a seafood dish like Hot Crabcake Dip to create a delightful seafood buffet experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wild Rice Shrimp Casserole contains roughly 647 calories, with 9g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 823mg per serving (36% 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 uncooked shrimp in this casserole?
It's best to use cooked shrimp for this recipe to ensure the shrimp are tender and flavorful. If you only have uncooked shrimp, cook them first before adding them to the mixture. This way, they will blend well with the other ingredients and retain their texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Simply mix all the ingredients and store them in the casserole dish without baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for wild rice?
If you can't find wild rice, a blend of brown and white rice can be a suitable alternative. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so adjust it accordingly. Quinoa is another great option, offering a different texture while still maintaining a nutritious profile.
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).