Delish! Need to make 2 of these next time!

Shrimp Rice Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that combines succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and a variety of seasonings to create a delightfully flavorful meal. This dish has roots in Southern cuisine, particularly along the Gulf Coast, where seafood is abundant and celebrated. It's perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you want a one-pan meal that’s both delicious and hearty. The rich blend of spices and creamy texture will make your taste buds dance, and the simplicity of preparation means it’s accessible even for busy weeknights.

This Shrimp Rice Casserole pairs wonderfully with a light green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a fantastic choice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a more vegetable-forward side, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus adds a nice crunch and completes the meal with added nutritional value.

Servings: 6

1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

3. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they just turn pink, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables and shrimp, grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.

6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.

8. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

For a different protein option, consider substituting the shrimp with diced cooked chicken or turkey. You can also add more vegetables such as celery, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. Lastly, using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can provide a nice twist to the flavor profile of the casserole.