Description
A rich and flavorful Crab and Shrimp Casserole featuring tender seafood baked in a creamy vegetable sauce topped with cheddar cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. This comforting dish combines sautéed aromatics with a velvety sauce seasoned with Old Bay, perfect for a hearty family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound lump crabmeat
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
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
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Garnish
- 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 prevent sticking and prepare it for the casserole mixture.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic over medium heat until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season and Combine Seafood: Stir in Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and peeled shrimp ensuring the seafood is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the crab and shrimp mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs over the top to create a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven 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 freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, bright finish.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed seafood for the best texture and flavor.
- Old Bay seasoning can be substituted with Cajun seasoning for a different spice profile.
- For a richer casserole, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or add a splash of cream.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers for added texture.
- Make sure not to overcook the seafood in the sauce to avoid rubbery texture; it will continue cooking in the oven.
