Description
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, savory seafood dish combining lump crabmeat and large shrimp with sautéed vegetables in a rich sauce. Topped with cheddar cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, it bakes to a golden perfection, making it a comforting and elegant meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
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 and Toppings
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Stir in all-purpose flour to the sautéed vegetables to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth to the mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season and Add Seafood: Season the sauce with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and peeled shrimp ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the seafood mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs over the top to create a delicious crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while cooking.
- You can use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
- Adjust Old Bay seasoning to your taste for desired spiciness.
- Ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined to avoid any gritty texture.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving for convenience.
