Indulgent Ultimate Seafood Casserole: A Family Favorite Delight
This Ultimate Seafood Casserole combines shrimp, scallops, and crab meat in a creamy sauce, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for dinner gatherings.
Equipment
- Skillet
- Casserole Dish
- Mixing bowl
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Seafood
- 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.
For the Sauce
- 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.
For the Topping
- 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.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Thaw the scallops, peel, and devein the shrimp. Ensure the crab meat is cleaned and free of shell fragments.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Gently fold in the seafood into the sauce, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until shrimp turns pink and scallops are opaque.
- Scoop the seafood mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, then sprinkle over the seafood.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown. Broil for an extra 2-3 minutes if desired.
- Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and thyme.
Notes
Monitor cooking times to avoid rubberiness; shrimp and scallops cook quickly. Always taste the sauce to adjust seasoning. Use a shallow casserole dish for even cooking.