Shrimp & Rice Casserole: A Cheesy Southern Classic

ByEmma

Craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of the South? This Shrimp and Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. With succulent shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of cheeses, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

Contents

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1½ cups uncooked long-grain rice
  • 1½ lbs medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 celery ribs, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 green onions, chopped
  • 2 (10¾ oz) cans cream of shrimp soup, undiluted
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup fine dry breadcrumbs

Source:

🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook Rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, approximately 3-5 minutes.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables and shrimp, green onions, cream of shrimp soup, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  8. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

💡 Pro Tips

  • Rice Texture: For a fluffier texture, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear before cooking.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a spicy Pepper Jack for an extra kick.
  • Add Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
  • Seafood Mix: Enhance the seafood flavor by adding a mix of crab meat or scallops along with the shrimp.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Pair this rich casserole with a light, crisp salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the flavors. A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus also complements the dish beautifully.

🧼 Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

This Shrimp and Rice Casserole is a testament to the comforting flavors of Southern cuisine. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite!

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