Shrimp & Crab Casserole Delight
Crab and Shrimp Casserole
Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that pleases seafood lovers with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This recipe combines tender lump crabmeat and juicy shrimp, mixed with savory vegetables and a creamy sauce. Topped with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, it’s a perfect dinner option for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It has a delightful combination of seafood and spices that make every bite special. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home, this crab and shrimp casserole fits the bill. It’s also versatile; you can make it for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, who can resist that cheesy, golden-brown crust?
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Casserole
Making Crab and Shrimp Casserole involves several simple steps that lead to a tasty dish that everyone will love. Follow along with the recipe to see how easy it can be!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crabmeat
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside. Link to step
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Cook vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Link to step
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Make the roux: Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Link to step
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Prepare the sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Season the sauce with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Link to step
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Add seafood: Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated with the sauce. Link to step
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Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the breadcrumbs. Link to step
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Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top. Link to step
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Cool and garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and serving. Link to step
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Casserole
This casserole is best served hot from the oven. You can serve it with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread on the side. It can also be a great main course for a holiday gathering or a family meal.
How to Store Crab and Shrimp Casserole
Once cool, cover the leftover casserole with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Crab and Shrimp Casserole
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving.
- Try different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a twist.
- You can swap shrimp for other seafood like scallops or lobster, based on your preference.
Variation
If you want to add more veggies, consider mixing in some spinach or artichokes for added flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use frozen crabmeat and shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version of the casserole.
Enjoy this comforting and delicious Crab and Shrimp Casserole at your next meal!
Crab and Shrimp Casserole
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound lump crabmeat
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with other cheeses
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- to taste Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Season the sauce with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated with the sauce.
Assembly and Baking
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and serving.
