Indulgent Ultimate Seafood Casserole: A Family Favorite Delight

Name: Indulgent Ultimate Seafood Casserole: A Family Favorite Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Shrimp (Fresh or frozen, thawed if needed.); 1 lb Scallops (Thawed overnight if frozen.); 1 cup Crab Meat (Use fresh or pasteurized, ensure no shell fragments.); 4 tbsp Butter (Essential for sautéing vegetables.); 1 medium Onion (Sauté until translucent.); 2 cloves Garlic (Sauté briefly.); 2 cups Heavy Cream (Can substitute half-and-half.); 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard (Provides tanginess.); 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (Adds umami flavor.); 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Can swap with vinegar.); 1 tsp Paprika (Use smoked for extra depth.); to taste Salt & Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Substitute with Monterey Jack if desired.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Can be omitted if unavailable.); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Crushed crackers or panko are great alternatives.)

Published: February 4, 2026

by Clare

Why is Ultimate Seafood Casserole a must-try?

Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is sure to impress guests and family alike, making it a perfect choice for gatherings.
Creamy Comfort: The delicious blend of seafood and rich cream sauce creates a dish that’s deeply satisfying.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your taste by swapping seafood or adding your favorite toppings, like in the much-loved Tetrazzini Comfort Food.
Quick Prep: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dish ready to bake, saving precious time during busy weeknights.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the seafood and flavor from fresh ingredients, this casserole is as nutritious as it is indulgent.

Ingredients for Ultimate Seafood Casserole

• This list will help you gather all you need for a delightful dish!

For the Seafood

Shrimp – Provides sweetness and protein; choose fresh or frozen, thawed if needed.
Scallops – Adds delicate texture; ensure they’re thawed overnight if frozen.
Crab Meat – Offers a savory flavor; use fresh or pasteurized while ensuring no shell fragments.

For the Sauce

Butter – Essential for sautéing vegetables; adds richness to the sauce.
Onion – Delivers depth and savory notes; sauté until translucent for the best results.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; sauté briefly for a fragrant touch.
Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy base; can substitute half-and-half for a lighter dish.
Dijon Mustard – Provides tanginess; don’t skip for maximum flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami; a small amount significantly enhances flavor.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; can swap with vinegar if needed.
Paprika – Adds warmth and color; use smoked paprika for extra depth.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

For the Topping

Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully for the topping; substitute with Monterey Jack if desired.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds nutty flavor; can be omitted if unavailable.
Breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy finish; crushed crackers or panko are great alternatives.

How to Make Ultimate Seafood Casserole

Prepare Seafood: Start by thawing the scallops, peeling, and deveining the shrimp. Make sure the crab meat is cleaned and free of shell fragments for the best texture.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it’s translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, thickening into a luscious sauce.
Combine Seafood: Gently fold in your prepared seafood into the sauce, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and the scallops become opaque.
Transfer Mixture: Carefully scoop the seafood mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even baking.
Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, then sprinkle the mixture generously over the seafood.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown. For an extra crispy finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and thyme for a lovely touch.

Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for an extra zing.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Ultimate Seafood Casserole

Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked Ultimate Seafood Casserole tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If you freeze the casserole, bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Thawing: To cook the frozen casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking for best results.

What to Serve with Ultimate Seafood Casserole?

Bring your dining experience to life by complementing your casserole with delightful sides and flavors that enhance its rich, creamy goodness.

Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment to scoop up every last bite while adding a delightful crunch. The buttery, garlicky aroma will tie your meal together beautifully.
Fresh Garden Salad: Refreshing and crisp, a tangy vinaigrette salad balances the rich casserole, providing a burst of brightness that will awaken your palate.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender and vibrant, asparagus adds a fresh element, making it an elegant side that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized vegetables offer a sweet contrast to the savory casserole. Think carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for colorful appeal.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden and crispy, these wedges serve as a hearty contrast to the casserole’s creaminess, ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying crunch with their meal.
Chardonnay Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings out the seafood’s flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience while providing a delightful finish.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft and fluffy, these biscuits are perfect for sopping up the creamy filling, adding a comforting touch to your table. Deliciously decadent, they will have everyone coming back for more!

Expert Tips for Ultimate Seafood Casserole

• Monitor Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the seafood cooking times to prevent rubberiness; shrimp and scallops cook quickly, so avoid overcooking.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before adding the seafood. Adjust the acidity and seasoning to suit your palate for the best flavor in your Ultimate Seafood Casserole.

• Use a Shallow Dish: Opt for a shallow casserole dish to ensure even cooking and a crispy topping; this will prevent any parts from becoming soggy.

• Proper Thawing: Ensure your frozen seafood, like scallops, is fully thawed overnight in the fridge for optimal texture. Avoid boiling or microwaving to ensure tenderness.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Try adding different cheeses or spices to the topping, which can enhance the flavors and make your casserole unique each time.

Ultimate Seafood Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring these delightful twists and swaps!

Lobster Upgrade: Replace shrimp or scallops with fresh lobster for a luxurious twist that’s sure to impress your taste buds. Each bite will evoke the seaside, making every forkful a special treat.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a zesty punch that adds vibrant heat to every spoonful. Just a hint of spice can bring a whole new energy to the dish!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the seafood for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a wholesome, veggie-packed centerpiece. This variation still delivers that creamy comfort while appealing to a broader audience.
Cheesy Indulgence: Experiment with various cheeses like Gruyère or creamy feta for a flavor explosion. Each cheese will contribute a different layer of richness, giving your casserole a unique twist.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical hint, swap half of the heavy cream with creamy coconut milk. The result is a subtle sweetness that brings a delightful richness that’s unexpected yet comforting.
Quinoa Base: Use cooked quinoa instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free crunch that adds both texture and protein. It’s a nutritious twist that keeps the casserole hearty and satisfying.
Herbed Crust: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the breadcrumb topping for an added burst of flavor. The herby aroma will elevate the dish while enhancing its visual appeal.
Smoky Flavor: Replace regular paprika with smoked paprika to introduce a deep, rich flavor. This small swap can transform the dish into a smoky delight, making it even more enticing!

Make Ahead Options

These Ultimate Seafood Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire seafood mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the sautéed aromatics and cooked seafood, then refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain quality, avoid adding the topping until just before baking to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer the seafood mix to a greased casserole dish and sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. This way, you can have a delicious, family-favorite dish ready in no time, leaving your evenings stress-free!

Ultimate Seafood Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of seafood works best for the Ultimate Seafood Casserole?
Absolutely! The beauty of the Ultimate Seafood Casserole lies in its versatility. While shrimp, scallops, and crab meat are the stars, you can easily incorporate lobster for a luxurious twist or even utilize sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian delight. Just make sure that when you choose your seafood, it’s fresh or properly thawed to maintain texture.

How should I store leftover Ultimate Seafood Casserole?
Leftovers of your Ultimate Seafood Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it heats evenly and retains that delightful creaminess.

Can I freeze the Ultimate Seafood Casserole?
Very! Freezing the casserole is a great way to extend its shelf life. To do this, prepare the casserole as per the recipe but do not bake it. Instead, tightly wrap the uncooked casserole with plastic wrap and foil, and it can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.

What if my seafood looks rubbery after cooking?
The key to perfectly tender seafood lies in monitoring the cooking time closely, as shrimp and scallops cook quite rapidly. If your seafood turns rubbery, it’s likely overcooked. For best results, cook the seafood only until it’s just opaque; the residual heat will finish the cooking. If you’d like to prevent this in the future, consider using a timer and check the seafood occasionally, especially toward the end of the recommended cooking time.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Ultimate Seafood Casserole?
Absolutely! Given that this dish contains seafood and dairy, it’s essential to consider allergies. If your guests have seafood allergies, a flavorful vegetarian version can be created using seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers instead of seafood. For those avoiding dairy, you can experiment with non-dairy cream alternatives, just be sure to check that any replacements align with your dietary needs.