Louisiana Casserole

There’s something special about gathering around a table with family and friends, and one dish that always brings everyone together is Louisiana Casserole. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of sautéed vegetables and spices filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. This dish is a staple in my home, representing comfort and warmth. It’s the kind of meal that can turn a regular weeknight into a delightful gathering, and it always impresses! Every bite of that flavorful shrimp, smoked sausage, and tender rice reminds me of the heartwarming meals shared in the bayous of Louisiana, making it a cherished recipe in our family.

What Goes Into Louisiana Casserole

The beauty of Louisiana Casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that characteristic taste and texture. The standout ingredients like shrimp and andouille sausage bring a touch of Cajun flair, while the mix of colorful bell peppers and onions rounds out the dish with freshness and crunch. Together, they create a harmonious blend that’s sure to please any palate.

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: These tender morsels contribute sweetness and a slight briny flavor, making them the star of the dish.
• ¼ cup butter, salted: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
• ½ yellow onion, minced: Delivers a savory base flavor that enhances the dish.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Provides color and a nice crunch.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the casserole.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic foundation.
• 14 ounces andouille sausage, cut into ¼ inch rounds: Offers that distinct smoky flavor that defines Louisiana cooking.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
• 3 cups cooked rice, white or brown: Acts as the hearty base that holds everything together.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes: Imparts a lovely depth of flavor and moisture.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Brings in the authentic Louisiana spice blend.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated: Melts beautifully on top, adding a savory crust.
• ⅓ cup plain bread crumbs: Helps create a crispy topping that contrasts with the tender filling.
• ½ teaspoon salt: For seasoning the breadcrumb topping.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Complements the topping.

Cooking Instructions for Louisiana Casserole

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with Louisiana Casserole. It’s a straightforward process that brings all those flavors together beautifully. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will help your casserole come out easily once it’s done.
3. In a large skillet, heat ¼ cup butter over medium-high heat until melted. You want it to look bubbly and fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.
4. Add ½ yellow onion and the diced 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these vegetables until they become tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Look for them to turn translucent and soften.
5. Now, stir in 2 cloves garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the garlic wafting through the air.
6. Next, add 14 ounces andouille sausage to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Allow this to cook for about 5 minutes until the sausage starts to brown slightly. This will deepen the flavors.
7. Incorporate the 1 pound shrimp into the mixture, seasoning it with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You want to be careful not to overcook them!
8. Once the shrimp is ready, transfer the entire skillet mixture into your prepared baking dish. This vibrant mixture of shrimp, sausage, and vegetables looks inviting already!
9. Add 3 cups cooked rice and the 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes to the baking dish. Don’t forget those 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning! Stir everything together well, ensuring the rice is distributed evenly throughout.
10. In a separate small bowl, mix together ½ cup parmesan cheese, ⅓ cup plain bread crumbs, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. This will form a delightful topping.
11. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole, creating a lovely crust that will turn golden brown in the oven.
12. Place the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. You’re looking for the topping to be golden and crispy.
13. Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps all the flavors meld together.

Making Adjustments

If you’re looking to make some adjustments or variations to your Louisiana Casserole, here are some great tips to consider:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe dish. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage and shrimp with your favorite plant-based ingredients for a vegetarian take.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
• Rice Variations: Try using brown rice or quinoa for a different texture and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Louisiana Casserole

When it comes to serving your Louisiana Casserole, there are so many delightful options! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed in a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or baguette slices for some hearty dipping.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy side that complements the casserole.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even potlucks. Its appealing presentation makes it a hit.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week.
• Seasonal Pairings: During the fall, a side of roasted squash or sweet potatoes can be a delightful addition.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Louisiana Casserole stands out as a deliciously comforting dish that combines the best of Cajun and Creole flavors. With its easy preparation and satisfying ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; gather your loved ones and enjoy a meal that creates lasting memories. You won’t regret it!

Louisiana Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Louisiana Casserole is a delicious blend of shrimp, sausage, and rice, seasoned to perfection. This easy weeknight dinner will have everyone craving seconds. Make it tonight and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors that bring family and friends together!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Oven
• Peeler
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• ¼ cup butter salted
• ½ yellow onion minced, about 1/3 cup
• 1 green bell pepper diced, about 1 cup
• 1 red bell pepper diced, about 1 cup
• 2 cloves garlic minced, about 2 teaspoons
• 14 ounces andouille sausage cut into ¼ inch rounds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 3 cups cooked rice white or brown
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
• ½ cup parmesan cheese grated
• ⅓ cup plain bread crumbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
• Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will help your casserole come out easily once it's done.
• In a large skillet, heat ¼ cup butter over medium-high heat until melted. You want it to look bubbly and fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.
• Add ½ yellow onion and the diced 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these vegetables until they become tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Look for them to turn translucent and soften.
• Now, stir in 2 cloves garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the garlic wafting through the air.
• Next, add 14 ounces andouille sausage to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Allow this to cook for about 5 minutes until the sausage starts to brown slightly. This will deepen the flavors.
• Incorporate the 1 pound shrimp into the mixture, seasoning it with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You want to be careful not to overcook them!
• Once the shrimp is ready, transfer the entire skillet mixture into your prepared baking dish. This vibrant mixture of shrimp, sausage, and vegetables looks inviting already!
• Add 3 cups cooked rice and the 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes to the baking dish. Don’t forget those 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning! Stir everything together well, ensuring the rice is distributed evenly throughout.
• In a separate small bowl, mix together ½ cup parmesan cheese, ⅓ cup plain bread crumbs, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. This will form a delightful topping.
• Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole, creating a lovely crust that will turn golden brown in the oven.
• Place the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. You’re looking for the topping to be golden and crispy.
• Once it's done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps all the flavors meld together.

Notes

• Tip 1: If you are using frozen shrimp, thaw it before cooking.
• Tip 2: You can use jumbo or mini shrimps in this recipe; the shrimp I used was a medium-sized, standard shrimp fresh at the deli of my local grocery store.
• Tip 3: I used minute rice for this recipe, but you can make regular rice with a rice maker. To get 3 cups of cooked rice, you will need to cook about 1 cup of dry rice.

Keyword Cajun casserole, comfort food casserole, Easy Shrimp Recipe, Louisiana shrimp dinner

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.