Description
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a rich and creamy seafood dish combining succulent lump crabmeat and large shrimp with a savory vegetable base and a cheesy breadcrumb topping. Perfectly baked to golden bubbly perfection, it offers a delightful blend of flavors enhanced by Old Bay seasoning and fresh parsley garnish. Ideal for a comforting family meal or special occasion.
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
Base and Sauce
- 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
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant, which brings out their natural sweetness.
- Make the Sauce: Stir the all-purpose flour into the sautéed vegetables to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, continuing to cook and stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Season and Combine Seafood: Add Old Bay seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and peeled shrimp, ensuring the seafood is well coated with the sauce mixture without breaking it up.
- Transfer and Top: Pour the seafood mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese followed by the breadcrumbs over the top to create a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot, offering a fresh and colorful finish.
Notes
- Use fresh seafood for best flavor and texture; frozen can be used but thaw thoroughly and drain well.
- Old Bay seasoning adds a classic touch but can be adjusted according to your spice preference.
- For a lower-carb option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or omit entirely.
- Make sure the sauce thickens adequately to prevent the casserole from being too runny.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor melding.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
