Seafood Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Seafood Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines a variety of fresh seafood with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a golden, crispy topping. This casserole brings together the sweet, delicate flavors of shrimp, scallops, and crab, all enveloped in a rich and savory mixture that’s baked to perfection. It’s an ideal dish for special occasions, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving a hearty and satisfying seafood meal.

The beauty of this seafood casserole lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to impress your guests, this casserole will surely become a go-to recipe.

Why You’ll Love Seafood Casserole

• Rich, Creamy Texture: The creamy sauce that binds the seafood together creates a velvety texture that is both indulgent and satisfying. The casserole is baked until bubbling and golden, making each bite a perfect combination of rich and comforting.
• Perfectly Balanced Seafood Flavors: The mix of shrimp, scallops, and crab in this casserole provides a variety of textures and flavors. The natural sweetness of the seafood pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, making each bite a delightful treat.
• Golden, Crispy Topping: The breadcrumb and cheese topping adds a delicious contrast to the creamy interior. This crunchy layer is the perfect finishing touch, adding both texture and flavor to the dish.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Despite its luxurious taste, this casserole uses basic pantry ingredients like breadcrumbs, cream, and cheese, making it easy to prepare with items you likely already have at home.
• Great for Special Occasions: Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or a dinner party, this seafood casserole makes a statement and is sure to impress your guests. It’s elegant enough for any occasion yet simple to make.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-28g
• Carbohydrates: 15-18g
• Protein: 25-28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Seafood Casserole:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb scallops (fresh or frozen)
• 1 lb crab meat (fresh or pasteurized)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional, for added flavor)

Special Equipment

While making Seafood Casserole doesn’t require specialized tools, a few essential kitchen items will help streamline the preparation and ensure the dish is made perfectly:

1. Large Skillet or Frying Pan: You’ll need a large skillet to sauté the onions and garlic, which creates the flavorful base for the casserole.
2. Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe, allowing the casserole to bake evenly and produce that lovely golden, crispy topping.
3. Grater: A box grater or microplane is essential for grating the cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a creamier texture than pre-shredded varieties.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Use standard measuring cups and spoons to measure the ingredients.
5. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Stirring the casserole mixture ensures the ingredients are well combined and that the sauce thickens properly as it simmers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Seafood

Begin by preparing the seafood. If using frozen scallops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Peel and devein the shrimp, ensuring all shells and tails are removed. If using fresh crab meat, ensure there are no shell fragments. If you’re using pasteurized crab meat, simply drain it well.

Once the seafood is prepared, chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces and break the crab meat into smaller chunks if necessary. Set the seafood aside while you work on the sauce.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

The onions and garlic will create a savory base for the casserole, adding depth and flavor to the dish.

3. Make the Sauce

Once the onion and garlic are softened, pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture gently to combine the cream with the sautéed vegetables. Add the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken slightly.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed. If you prefer a little more tang, you can add more lemon juice or Dijon mustard to taste.

4. Add the Seafood

Add the prepared shrimp, scallops, and crab meat into the creamy sauce. Stir gently to coat the seafood with the sauce. Let the seafood cook in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, just until the shrimp turns pink and the scallops become opaque. Be careful not to overcook the seafood at this stage, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

Once the seafood is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the mixture into a large casserole dish.

5. Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. This mixture will create the crispy, golden topping that makes the casserole irresistible. Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the seafood and sauce.

You can add a bit more paprika on top of the breadcrumbs for extra color and flavor, or sprinkle some fresh thyme for an additional aromatic touch.

6. Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is ready, place the casserole dish in the center of the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. If you want an extra crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and thyme if desired for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Scoop generous portions of the casserole onto plates and serve immediately. The creamy sauce and rich seafood flavors will make every bite a delight.

Tips for Perfect Seafood Casserole

• Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Since the seafood will continue cooking in the oven, be careful not to overcook it during the stovetop step. Aim for just cooked through seafood to ensure it doesn’t become rubbery.
• Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh seafood will deliver the best flavor and texture, but if using frozen seafood, make sure it’s thawed completely and drained of excess water to avoid making the casserole too watery.
• Make It Ahead of Time: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance by assembling everything, including the topping, and then storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then bake as directed.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour to the onions and garlic in step 2 to make a roux before adding the cream. For a richer casserole, increase the amount of cheese in the sauce.

Variations of Seafood Casserole

• Lobster Casserole: Substitute the crab or scallops with lobster meat for an extra touch of luxury. Lobster adds a sweet, tender flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Spicy Seafood Casserole: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also add some hot sauce or a dash of chili powder to increase the heat.
• Vegetable Seafood Casserole: For a lighter version, incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini into the casserole. These will add color and a fresh taste that complements the seafood.
• Gluten-Free Seafood Casserole: To make the casserole gluten-free, simply swap the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure the cheese you’re using doesn’t contain any added flour.

Storage and Shelf Life

Seafood Casserole is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later. Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a baking dish and cover with foil. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking. To do so, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Seafood Casserole

Pair this creamy seafood casserole with complementary dishes to complete the meal:

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy casserole sauce.
• Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, lemon vinaigrette, and maybe a few nuts or cheese adds a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts provide a nice balance to the creamy casserole and enhance the overall meal.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve the casserole alongside a simple rice pilaf or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

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Conclusion

Seafood Casserole is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together a medley of fresh seafood, a creamy sauce, and a golden, crispy topping. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, holiday gathering, or special occasion, this casserole will impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll create a dish that’s as luxurious as it is comforting. Enjoy this creamy seafood casserole with your loved ones—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!