Crab and Shrimp Casserole

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about indulging in a warm, hearty meal—especially when it’s packed with the rich, briny flavors of the ocean. This Crab and Shrimp Casserole offers the perfect blend of succulent seafood, aromatic vegetables, and creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re preparing for a dinner party, holiday feast, or just a cozy night in, this casserole is bound to impress. It’s luxurious, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make in under an hour. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful seafood comfort dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lump crabmeat (fresh or high-quality refrigerated variety)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped bell pepper (red, green, or a mix)
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Seafood

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Clean the shrimp (if not prepped) and crabmeat, removing any shells or cartilage. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk, followed by the chicken broth. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens to a creamy sauce. Season with Old Bay, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine the Seafood and Sauce

Gently fold in the crabmeat and shrimp. Stir to coat the seafood evenly with the creamy vegetable sauce, taking care not to break apart the crab too much.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the seafood mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by a layer of breadcrumbs for that perfect golden crust.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.

Variation

• Cheese Swap: Use Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a seafood-friendly blend instead of cheddar.
• Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, chopped mushrooms, or diced tomatoes.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Crunch Boost: Use crushed Ritz crackers or panko instead of breadcrumbs for a different topping texture.

Cooking Notes

• Avoid overcooking the shrimp. They should be just cooked through and turn pink and opaque during baking.
• Use lump crabmeat for the best flavor and meaty texture. Avoid imitation crab if possible for authenticity.
• Gradually whisk in milk and broth to prevent lumps and create a smooth, velvety sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Pair with steamed green beans, asparagus, or roasted carrots.
• Add a slice of warm garlic bread or buttered dinner rolls for a filling, cozy meal.
• A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood beautifully.

Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake the next day when ready.
• Freezer Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month and reheat in the oven.
• Even Layering: Spread the seafood mixture evenly in the dish for consistent baking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Use a dish big enough to allow bubbling without spilling over.

Timing Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 25g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen seafood?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.

Q: Is this casserole spicy?
A: Not by default. You can make it spicy by adding cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or jalapeños.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute plant-based milk and butter, and skip or use dairy-free cheese to adapt the recipe.

Q: How long can leftovers be stored?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month in a sealed container.

Q: What type of crab should I buy?
A: Look for lump crabmeat in refrigerated sections for the best quality. Avoid canned unless it’s refrigerated.

Conclusion

This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is the ultimate seafood comfort dish—easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to please any crowd. From the creamy sauce to the cheesy topping and fresh herbs, every bite brings a taste of the sea in a cozy, homestyle format. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it on a quiet weeknight, this casserole is a celebration of seafood done right.

Print