A creamy, comforting Louisiana casserole that blends tender mirlitons and Gulf shrimp with rich cheese and Cajun flavor — a beloved local classic.
A Louisiana Story Behind This Dish
Mirliton casserole is one of those dishes that quietly holds a special place in Louisiana kitchens. Passed down through generations, it shows up at holiday tables, family gatherings, and Sunday dinners. Mirlitons — also known as chayote squash — soak up flavor beautifully, especially when paired with fresh Gulf shrimp and baked into a creamy, cheesy casserole.
This dish is Southern hospitality in a baking dish: warm, savory, and made for sharing.
Cajun & Creole Comfort Food
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy Louisiana comfort food
- A perfect balance of vegetables and seafood
- Great for holidays or family dinners
- Make-ahead friendly
- Crowd-pleasing and satisfying
Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6–8
Cuisine: Louisiana / Creole
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 mirlitons (chayote squash), peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb Gulf shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or seafood stock
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For topping:
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
- Cook the mirlitons:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add chopped mirlitons and cook for 10–12 minutes until tender. Drain well and mash lightly or chop finely. Set aside. - Preheat the oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Sauté the vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. - Cook the shrimp:
Stir in chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until just pink. - Build the casserole mixture:
Add cooked mirlitons, rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, stock, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. - Finish the filling:
Remove from heat and stir in green onions and parsley. - Assemble the casserole:
Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly. - Add topping:
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top. - Bake:
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. - Serve:
Let cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mirliton Casserole
- Drain mirlitons thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t overcook shrimp — they finish baking in the oven.
- Taste the filling before baking and adjust seasoning.
- For extra richness, add a little more cheese.
What to Serve With This Dish
- A simple green salad
- Garlic bread or French bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Iced tea or a crisp white wine
Frequently Asked Questions
What are mirlitons?
They’re chayote squash — mild, tender, and perfect for casseroles.
Can I add other seafood?
Yes — crabmeat works beautifully.
Can I make it ahead?
Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Mirliton and shrimp casserole is a true expression of Louisiana home cooking — humble ingredients layered together to create something rich, comforting, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with warmth, draws everyone to the table, and turns an ordinary meal into a memory worth sharing. Gather your people, pass the plates, and let the good times cook.