Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that has become a staple in my home. This delightful casserole combines tender shrimp, sautéed onions and mushrooms, and fluffy white rice, all enveloped in a rich sharp Cheddar cheese sauce with green peas. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. If you’re looking for a hearty, family-friendly dinner, this dish has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole

This shrimp and mushroom casserole is not just delicious; it’s packed with benefits. Firstly, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning cleanup is a breeze. Secondly, it’s versatile—easily modified to suit dietary preferences. Thirdly, it’s a satisfying comfort food that warms you from the inside out. The seafood rice casserole is not only rich in flavor but is also a healthy option, especially when you use fresh ingredients. Additionally, this dish is perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for busy nights. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners.

Ingredients for Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole

Gather these items:

1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice (about 4 1/2 cups cooked rice)
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup chopped onion
1 pound white mushrooms, washed and sliced
1/4 cup butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning, to taste
1/4 teaspoon salt, add more to taste
1 pinch black pepper, or more to taste
1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
1 pound cooked shrimp, deveined and shelled
1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

How to Make Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 °F. Grease a 9×13 baking pan thoroughly and set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the rice according to the package instructions until fluffy and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter and sauté the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms over medium heat until they are soft and cooked through. Stir in the cooked rice and mix thoroughly, then remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
Step 4: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter and add the minced garlic, cooking gently for about 2 minutes to infuse the flavor.
Step 5: Add the flour to the butter and garlic, and cook for about 2 minutes while stirring continuously until it develops a slightly browned scent, similar to baked pie crust.
Step 6: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking rapidly to prevent lumps, combining the mixture smoothly.
Step 7: Continue to cook the sauce while stirring for 5-6 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
Step 8: Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts completely. Adjust seasoning to your taste. Add the green peas and cook in the sauce until they are tender, then stir in the cooked shrimp and remove the sauce from heat.
Step 9: Pour the cheese sauce over the rice and vegetable mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
Step 10: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then return to the oven for another 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Step 11: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially in a mushroom shrimp rice bake.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the casserole set.
For a healthier version, consider using brown rice instead of white.
Make it a shrimp rice dish with mushrooms by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole: 5 Comforting Recipes - Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole

This baked shrimp and mushroom rice dish is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions:

Pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal.
Top with additional cheese or breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.
Serve with garlic bread for a complete comfort food experience.

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350 °F until warmed through. This is also a fantastic shrimp mushroom rice dish for meal prep—just portion out servings for quick lunches!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole?

The secret lies in not overcooking the shrimp. Just add them at the end to keep them tender. Plus, using fresh mushrooms enhances the flavor of your shrimp and mushroom casserole source.

Can I make Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven for a quick bake.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole?

Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, especially the rice and liquid, to avoid a dry or overly wet casserole. Also, allow it to rest before serving for the best texture.

Variations of Shrimp Mushroom Rice Casserole You Can Try

Here are a few tasty variations:

Substitute wild rice for white rice for a nuttier flavor.
Add different vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for a veggie-packed version.
Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
Opt for a gluten-free flour alternative if needed, ensuring it fits your healthy shrimp and rice casserole recipe criteria.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet treat!