If you’re ready to dive into a soul-satisfying Southern classic, this Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It beautifully marries tender, subtly sweet mirlitons with juicy, flavorful shrimp, all baked into a cozy, bubbly casserole that’s bursting with Cajun charm. Every bite brings together a delightful mix of textures and spices that will warm your heart and your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing friends with a dish that has roots deep in Louisiana tradition, this casserole never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance in this Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe depends on a handful of simple, down-to-earth ingredients that each play an essential role. From the fresh crunch of diced celery to the comforting warmth of Cajun seasoning, these ingredients combine to create layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so memorable.
- Mirlitons (2½ lbs): These squash-like vegetables bring a mild sweetness and tender bite that’s fundamental to this recipe.
- Shrimp (1 lb, bite-sized): The star seafood adds succulent flavor and a lovely protein punch.
- Liquid crab boil (1 tsp): A secret ingredient that infuses the shrimp with a subtle oceanic seasoning.
- Seasoned ground meat (1 lb): Choose beef or chicken to add rich, savory depth and heartiness.
- Yellow onion (1, diced): Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation when cooked with other veggies.
- Green bell pepper (1, diced): Brings fresh, crisp notes and a pop of color.
- Celery stalks (2, diced): Adds a satisfying crunch and herbaceous undertone.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): A pungent kick that brightens the entire dish.
- Vinegar-based hot sauce (1 tbsp): Delivers tangy heat to elevate the flavors.
- Cajun seasoning (to taste): Imparts the distinct spicy, smoky essence of Louisiana cooking.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing everything into harmony.
- French bread cubes (4 cups): Whether stale or oven-dried, these add texture and soak up the savory juices.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): A crisp topping that provides a golden finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds a nutty, salty crust that melts beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Mirlitons
Begin by boiling the whole mirlitons for 45 to 60 minutes until they are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Once cooked, let them cool completely before peeling off the tough exterior. Carefully remove the seeds and the hard core inside, then chop the soft flesh into bite-sized pieces. This step transforms the mirlitons into a melt-in-your-mouth base that’s subtly sweet and ready to soak up all the delicious seasonings ahead.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, give the shrimp a quick soak in water infused with liquid crab boil—it’s a classic way to add deep, briny undertones that complement the seafood perfectly. After soaking, sauté the shrimp briefly in butter just until they turn pink. This keeps them tender and juicy without overcooking. Remove from heat and set aside, so they remain plump and flavorful inside the casserole.
Step 3: Cook Meat and Vegetables
In a large skillet, brown the seasoned ground meat until it’s cooked through and slightly caramelized. Then, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook this mixture until the vegetables become soft and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness and adding layers of savory goodness. This step creates the rich, aromatic heart of the casserole.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, toss together the chopped mirlitons, cooked shrimp, browned meat and vegetable mix, and the bread cubes. Add the hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper thoughtfully, mixing until every bite is evenly seasoned. This combination ensures the casserole has a balanced flavor, with just enough heat and a wonderful blend of textures.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the top generously with the breadcrumbs followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. These toppings will crisp up beautifully in the oven, providing a golden, cheesy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling beneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled casserole at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbling, releasing an irresistible aroma. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up.
How to Serve Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh touch by sprinkling chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving. These garnishes introduce a vibrant color contrast and a mild freshness that brightens the richness of the casserole. A few lemon wedges on the side are also fantastic for those who love a citrusy zing to complement the seafood flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple green salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy coleslaw. Light sides keep the meal balanced and refreshing, while some crusty French bread is perfect for mopping up any tasty juices left on your plate. You can also serve it alongside classic Southern favorites like dirty rice or sautéed greens for a more indulgent feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a pinch of paprika. You could also layer the casserole in a clear glass baking dish to showcase the colorful layers of shrimp, vegetables, and bread cubes—it’s almost too pretty to eat! Either way, this dish is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole should be cooled to room temperature, then transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days without losing its flavors or texture, making it a perfect next-day meal or easy lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze this Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, covering tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispy topping. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for convenience, but the topping will lose some of its crunch this way.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this casserole?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before cooking to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
What if I can’t find mirlitons?
If mirlitons aren’t available, chayote squash or zucchini can be good substitutes. They have a similar texture when cooked and will keep the spirit of the dish alive.
Is this casserole spicy?
The heat level depends on how much Cajun seasoning and hot sauce you add. You can adjust these to your taste, making it mild or more fiery based on what you and your guests prefer.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the shrimp and ground meat, and increase the veggies or add a hearty plant-based protein like cooked lentils or mushrooms. Just adjust seasonings to keep that bold Cajun flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
From start to finish, including boiling the mirlitons, the Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is well worth the delicious payoff.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe is a delightful journey into the flavors of the South that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s a dish that brings people together over comfort and tradition, with every bite telling a story. I encourage you to give it a try, savor the process, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results with those you love.
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Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole is a comforting Cajun-inspired dish combining tender mirlitons, succulent shrimp, seasoned ground meat, and a medley of sautéed vegetables. The casserole is topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, baked to a golden, bubbling perfection. Perfect for a hearty meal serving eight, this recipe blends rich flavors and textures for a truly satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2½ lbs mirlitons (4–5 medium)
- 1 lb shrimp (51/60 size, bite-sized)
- 1 tsp liquid crab boil
- 1 lb seasoned ground meat (beef or chicken)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp vinegar-based hot sauce
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Bread Topping
- 4 cups French bread, cubed (stale or oven-dried)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Mirlitons: Boil whole mirlitons for 45–60 minutes until fork-tender. Once cooked, allow them to cool, then peel off the skin, remove the seeds and tough core, and chop the flesh into pieces.
- Cook Shrimp: Soak the shrimp briefly in water seasoned with liquid crab boil for added flavor. Next, sauté the shrimp in butter over medium heat until they just turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from heat and set aside.
- Cook Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, brown the seasoned ground meat until fully cooked. Add the diced yellow onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the meat and cook together until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped mirlitons, cooked shrimp, the ground meat and vegetable mixture, cubed French bread, vinegar-based hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and evenly spread the combined mixture into the dish. Sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious crispy crust.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling hot.
Notes
- You can substitute the ground meat with either beef or chicken based on preference.
- Use stale or oven-dried French bread cubes to help absorb moisture without becoming soggy.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and hot sauce to control the heat level according to your taste.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set for easier portioning.
- For an extra cheesy topping, add more Parmesan or a blend of cheddar cheeses before baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
