Double Shrimp Casserole: A Taste of Nostalgia

The scent of this casserole instantly transports me back to sun-drenched summer days at my Aunt Carol’s house. As kids, we’d spend hours playing in the backyard, our laughter echoing through the air. And then, as the evening approached, that unmistakable aroma would waft from the kitchen, a promise of warm comfort and the unique, slightly briny taste of shrimp. This wasn’t just dinner; it was a memory in the making, a simple dish that represented family, love, and the joy of being together. While the original recipe used ingredients sometimes harder to find now, I’ve tweaked it to ensure this delicious bit of nostalgia can still be enjoyed today.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: 1 casserole
• Dietary Type: Pescatarian

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked crinkly noodles
• 1 (10 1/2 ounce) can cream of shrimp soup
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup Kraft mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onion
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup Kraft shredded natural cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined)
• 1 (5 ounce) can chow mein noodles

Equipment Needed

• Large Bowl
• 1-1/2 quart casserole dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Oven

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the crinkly noodles according to the package directions. Drain well once cooked and set aside.
2. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the creamy base. In a large bowl, combine the cream of shrimp soup, milk, Kraft mayonnaise, diced celery, chopped green onion, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked shrimp, and the drained, cooked noodles. Ensure everything is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
4. Lightly grease a 1-1/2 quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
5. Pour the noodle and shrimp mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly around the edges.
7. Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the chow mein noodles, spreading them evenly over the surface.
8. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chow mein noodles are golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the noodles. Slightly al dente is best, as they will continue to cook in the casserole. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.
• For an extra layer of flavor, sauté the celery and green onion in a little butter before adding them to the soup mixture. This softens them slightly and enhances their taste.
• If you can’t find cream of shrimp soup, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup and add a teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning to mimic the shrimp flavor.
• To prevent the chow mein noodles from burning, you can loosely tent the casserole with foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Make Ahead: The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
• Shrimp Size: Use medium or large shrimp for the best texture. Small shrimp may get lost in the casserole.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Double Shrimp Casserole warm, straight from the oven. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a lemon wedge can add a touch of freshness.

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed. The chow mein noodles may lose some of their crispness upon reheating.

This casserole isn’t ideal for freezing, as the noodles and mayonnaise-based sauce can change texture upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	497 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	258g	52%
Total Fat	28.7 g	44%
Saturated Fat	7.5 g	37%
Cholesterol	56.1 mg	18%
Sodium	1062.4 mg	44%
Total Carbohydrate	48.7 g	16%
Dietary Fiber	2.6 g	10%
Sugars	2.1 g	N/A
Protein	12.1 g	24%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure the cream of shrimp soup is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You may also try using a cashew-based cream sauce as a substitute for the cream of shrimp soup, adjusting seasonings to taste.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup mixture for a little heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate other vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Herby Delight: Stir in some fresh dill or thyme for a more herbaceous flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the casserole.

Q: Can I add breadcrumbs for a crispier topping?
A: While the chow mein noodles provide a nice crunch, you could add a breadcrumb topping as well. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole before baking.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Ensure the oven temperature is accurate and don’t overbake the casserole. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: A simple green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans would complement the richness of the casserole.

Q: Can I use a different type of noodle?
A: While crinkly noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as elbow macaroni or rotini. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

This Double Shrimp Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a connection to cherished memories, and a reminder of the simple joys in life. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories with it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. And most importantly, share it with those you love. I’d love to hear your feedback and see your own take on this classic dish! Perhaps a crisp glass of dry white wine would be the perfect accompaniment. Happy cooking!