Shrimp and Leek Casserole with a Creamy Sauce
Introduction
Shrimp and Leek Casserole with a Creamy Sauce is a comforting yet elegant dish that blends tender shrimp with the mild sweetness of leeks, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce. This casserole is perfect for family meals or special occasions, offering both nourishment and refined flavor without being overly heavy.
Description
This casserole features juicy shrimp gently sautéed and combined with soft, buttery leeks. A smooth, creamy sauce binds the ingredients together, creating a dish that is savory, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. It can be served on its own or paired with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.
Ingredients (in grams)
Peeled shrimp: 400 g
Leeks (cleaned and sliced): 300 g
Soft butter: 50 g
Neutral oil (sunflower or canola): 15 g
Cooking cream (or heavy cream): 200 g
Milk: 100 g
Wheat flour: 20 g
Garlic (finely minced): 5 g
Salt: 5 g (or to taste)
Black pepper: 2 g
Instructions
Prepare the leeks
Wash the leeks thoroughly and slice them thinly.
Sauté the leeks
Heat the butter and neutral oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook gently for 8–10 minutes until soft and fragrant, without browning.
Add shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove the mixture from heat and set aside.
Prepare the creamy sauce
In the same pan, sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk while stirring to avoid lumps, then add the cream. Simmer gently until thickened.
Combine
Return the shrimp and leek mixture to the sauce. Add garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 180°C for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Rest and serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Casserole-style dishes are deeply rooted in European home cooking, particularly in French-inspired cuisine where leeks and cream are staple ingredients. Shrimp adds a coastal influence, reflecting the blending of land and sea commonly seen in Mediterranean and Northern European food traditions.
Optional Additions
Grated cheese (30–50 g) for a golden crust
Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill
Mushrooms (100 g) for extra depth
A pinch of nutmeg for warmth
Tips for Success
Do not overcook the shrimp before baking—they will finish cooking in the oven.
Cook leeks slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.
Stir the sauce constantly while adding milk to keep it smooth.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Rich in vitamin B12, iodine, and antioxidants
Conclusion
Shrimp and Leek Casserole with a Creamy Sauce is a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and comfort. It transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels both homey and sophisticated.
Recommendation
Serve this casserole with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or whole-grain bread for a complete and satisfying meal. A light salad on the side adds freshness and balance.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish proves that indulgence can still be nourishing. By using fresh seafood, vegetables, and moderate cream, you can enjoy a rich meal while supporting balanced eating and mindful cooking.
If you’d like, I can also:
Adjust it to be lighter or dairy-free
Convert it into a one-pan stovetop version
Create a school or project-ready formatted version
Just tell me
