The Shrimp and Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Juicy shrimp are nestled in a creamy, cheesy rice base that bakes to perfection with just the right balance of savory flavor and heartiness. It’s the kind of warm, bubbling dish that feels like a comforting hug on a busy weeknight. This recipe shines as a no-fuss one-pan dinner, great for weeknight meals or casual gatherings. The shrimp cook right in the casserole, soaking up all the creamy mushroom and cheese flavors. It’s versatile too—feel free to add in veggies like peas or broccoli for an extra nutritional punch. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some roasted asparagus and you’ve got a well-rounded, satisfying meal everyone will love.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1 cup uncooked white rice
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup milk
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 tablespoons butter
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and green pepper, sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, rice, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
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Fold in the sautéed vegetables, shrimp, and half of the cheddar cheese.
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Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
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Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
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Return to oven and bake uncovered for 10-15 more minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Comfort Classic with a Coastal Twist
Shrimp and Rice Casserole is a beloved dish that effortlessly combines the rich, comforting textures of a baked casserole with the fresh, briny sweetness of shrimp. This hearty, one-pan wonder is a Southern-inspired classic that brings both flavor and nostalgia to the table. Known for its simple ingredients and satisfying taste, this casserole is a go-to for families seeking a meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its perfect balance of convenience and taste. The shrimp cook directly in the casserole, absorbing all the savory notes of the creamy mushroom soup and sharp cheddar cheese. The rice fluffs up beautifully in the oven, binding all the flavors together into a creamy, cheesy, crave-worthy bite.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What sets this Shrimp and Rice Casserole apart from other shrimp-based dishes is its simplicity and depth of flavor. It uses everyday pantry staples—canned soup, rice, and cheese—but turns them into a gourmet-style meal with minimal effort. The one-pan preparation means less mess in the kitchen, and the baking process allows the flavors to develop fully, making every bite more satisfying than the last.
In just over an hour, you get a warm, filling, protein-rich meal that’s ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meal prepping. The use of butter-sautéed onions and green bell peppers enhances the umami-rich base, while the shrimp provides a subtle seafood sweetness that elevates the entire dish.
The Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It’s low in calories and rich in high-quality protein, making it ideal for a well-balanced meal. It’s also a great source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine—nutrients often lacking in the average diet. Unlike red meats, shrimp is naturally low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy protein choice for families.
Additionally, shrimp contains antioxidants like astaxanthin, which can help reduce inflammation and support skin and heart health. When combined with wholesome rice and vegetables, this casserole transforms into a nutrient-dense comfort food that you can feel good about serving.
Adaptability and Customization
One of the best things about this casserole is how adaptable it is. You can swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa for an added fiber boost. Prefer more veggies? Add peas, carrots, or broccoli florets to the mix for color and added nutrients. For those who love heat, a dash of cayenne or hot sauce brings a delightful kick that balances the creamy base.
You can even make this casserole dairy-free by substituting the milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Need to make it gluten-free? Just make sure the canned soup is certified gluten-free. This versatility makes it an ideal recipe for families with dietary restrictions or evolving food preferences.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Friendly
Busy schedules demand practical recipes—and this casserole delivers. It can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake it fully and freeze it for up to three months, making it a great option for batch cooking or meal planning.
Simply reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, and you’ll have a hot, satisfying meal with no stress. It’s the kind of dependable dish that can be part of your weekly rotation without becoming boring, thanks to its customization potential.
A Family Favorite That Appeals to All Ages
This Shrimp and Rice Casserole isn’t just for adults. Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy top layer, and even picky eaters often enjoy the mild flavor of shrimp when paired with familiar ingredients like rice and cheese. It’s a great way to introduce seafood to younger family members without overwhelming their taste buds.
The mellow flavors also make it ideal for large family gatherings, where you need a dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes. It’s filling enough to serve on its own, but also pairs well with simple sides like a green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
Perfect for Entertaining or Potlucks
Hosting guests or attending a potluck? This casserole is your best friend. It’s easy to double the recipe to feed a crowd, and the presentation—golden melted cheese bubbling on top—always impresses. It’s also easy to transport, reheats well, and gets better with time as the flavors meld together.
Bring this dish to a party and you’ll likely leave with an empty dish and plenty of compliments. It’s the kind of dependable recipe that quickly becomes a signature dish you’ll be known for.
Budget-Friendly Without Compromise
In today’s economy, affordable meals are more important than ever. This casserole is cost-effective and stretches ingredients in a way that feels generous. A pound of shrimp goes a long way when paired with rice and veggies, and canned soup helps keep things affordable while still adding creamy depth.
Buying frozen shrimp or shrimp on sale can help cut costs without sacrificing taste. It’s proof that you don’t need to spend a lot to serve something that feels rich, comforting, and luxurious.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp and Rice Casserole
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp – Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they can become rubbery when baked.
- Don’t skip the foil – Covering the casserole for most of the baking time ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the creamy goodness.
- Rest before serving – Letting the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the dish to firm up and makes it easier to serve.
- Add breadcrumbs for crunch – For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle buttery breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before the final bake.
Conclusion
This Shrimp and Rice Casserole brings together the best of what home cooking should be: easy, flavorful, budget-friendly, and nourishing. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or sharing it at a social gathering, it offers warmth, comfort, and coastal flair in every bite. It’s a meal that satisfies without being complicated. And with its endless potential for variations, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen for years to come. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s one of the best shrimp casserole recipes out there.