If you’re on the lookout for a dish that beautifully captures the heart and soul of Southern comfort food, then this Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender mirlitons, succulent shrimp, and a rich blend of seasoned ground meat and fresh vegetables, all baked into a bubbly, golden casserole. Every bite offers layers of texture and flavor that feel like a warm hug from the kitchen, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special gatherings where you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in giving this casserole its character. The combination ensures a harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that make the dish so unforgettable.
- 2½ lbs mirlitons (4–5 medium): This unique vegetable adds a subtle squash-like crunch with a slightly nutty taste that complements seafood wonderfully.
- 1 lb shrimp (51/60 size, bite-sized): Tender and juicy shrimp lend the dish its signature coastal flavor and tender protein.
- 1 tsp liquid crab boil: A quick soak with this seasoning boosts the shrimp’s flavor with a mild spicy seafood kick.
- 1 lb seasoned ground meat (beef or chicken): A savory base that adds heartiness and depth to the casserole.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aromatic richness while softening during cooking.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Provides freshness and a bit of vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Imparts a mild earthy crunch and balances the softer ingredients.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Packs that beloved punch of flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 tbsp vinegar-based hot sauce: Adds a touch of tang with a little heat to brighten the mix.
- Cajun seasoning, to taste: Brings in smoky, spicy nuances essential to authentic Southern cooking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Fundamental for bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- 4 cups French bread, cubed (stale or oven-dried): These cubes soak up all the goodness and add a pleasant, chewy texture.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Creates a satisfyingly crisp topping when baked.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty richness and golden finish to the crust.
How to Make Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mirlitons
Start by boiling the whole mirlitons until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes. This slow cooking softens their tough skin and fibrous texture while locking in subtle flavors. Once cooled, peel away the skin, remove the seeds and tough core, and chop the flesh into bite-sized pieces. This step transforms mirlitons into the creamy, tender heart of your casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While the mirlitons are boiling, soak your shrimp briefly in water seasoned with the liquid crab boil. This not only enhances their fresh seafood taste but also infuses a hint of the bayou’s bold spirit. Then sauté the shrimp in butter just until they turn pink—overcooking will steal away their delicate texture. Set them aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Meat and Vegetables
In a large skillet, brown your choice of seasoned ground meat—either beef or chicken works wonderfully depending on your preference. Once the meat is cooked through, toss in diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Cook this combo until the vegetables soften and release their fragrant aroma, melding beautifully with the savory meat.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now for the magic moment: in a large bowl, mix the chopped mirlitons, cooked shrimp, and the meat-vegetable mixture. Add in the cubed French bread, vinegar-based hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, and salt and pepper to your liking. Gently but thoroughly fold everything together so each bite will be bursting with flavor and textures.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle with the breadcrumbs and top with grated Parmesan cheese. This finishing touch will form a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep a close eye for a bubbling, golden-brown finish as that’s your sign it’s perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions over the top just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh vibrancy. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add brightness that complements the rich flavors impeccably.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple Southern classics like steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or buttery cornbread. These lighter sides balance the richness and keep the meal feeling welcoming and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve individual portions in ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. Adding a small dollop of remoulade sauce or a drizzle of Creole mustard alongside can provide a delightful contrast and extra layer of flavor fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the casserole cools to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this dish remains delicious for up to 3 days, making it great for easy meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the shrimp and mirliton casserole recipe by placing it in a freezer-safe dish and sealing it well. For best quality, consume within 2 months. To avoid sogginess, consider leaving off the breadcrumb and cheese topping before freezing, adding it fresh before baking after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven until warmed through and crisp on top, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave portions on medium until hot but be mindful this won’t maintain the crispy topping texture as well as the oven.
FAQs
What exactly is a mirliton?
Mirliton, also called chayote squash, is a vegetable popular in Southern and Cajun cuisine. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crisp texture when cooked, similar to zucchini or cucumber. It’s low in calories and highly versatile, making it a wonderful base for casseroles like this one.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Fresh or frozen, the key is not to overcook to keep the shrimp tender and juicy within the casserole.
Is this casserole spicy?
The heat level depends on how much hot sauce and Cajun seasoning you add. The recipe allows you to adjust the spice to your taste, from mild and comforting to boldly spicy.
Can I substitute the meat with something else?
Absolutely! If ground beef or chicken isn’t your favorite, consider using ground pork, turkey, or even crumbled and cooked sausage. For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat and add chopped mushrooms or extra vegetables.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll see the top bubbling and turning a beautiful golden brown, the breadcrumbs crisp, and the entire dish heated through. Typically, 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F works well, but ovens vary, so keep an eye on it toward the end.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe is truly a treasure from the South that brings incredible flavors and textures to your table. It’s satisfying, comforting, and surprisingly straightforward to make, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. I hope you give it a try soon—you might just find it becoming one of your go-to recipes for years to come!
Print
Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American, Cajun
Description
This Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole is a hearty and flavorful Southern dish combining tender mirlitons, succulent shrimp, and seasoned ground meat with aromatic vegetables and Cajun spices. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy topping of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, this casserole offers a comforting blend of textures and tastes that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Proteins
- 2½ lbs mirlitons (4–5 medium)
- 1 lb shrimp (51/60 size, bite-sized)
- 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
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tsp liquid crab boil
- 1 tbsp vinegar-based hot sauce
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Bread and Cheese
- 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 to infuse flavor. Then sauté the shrimp in butter over medium heat until they turn just pink, indicating they are cooked through. Remove them from heat and set aside.
- Cook Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, brown the seasoned ground meat until fully cooked. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables become soft and aromatic.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped mirlitons, cooked shrimp, the meat and vegetable mixture, cubed bread, vinegar-based hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients and flavors.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the combined mixture evenly into it. Sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to create a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling hot. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure mirlitons are fully cooked and tender before peeling to ease preparation.
- Use stale or oven-dried French bread cubes to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- Ground chicken or beef can be used interchangeably based on preference.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead; assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
