Description
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
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1 pound lump crabmeat (fresh or high-quality refrigerated variety)
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1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
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1 cup chopped onion
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1 cup chopped bell pepper (red, green, or a mix)
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1 cup chopped celery
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup unsalted butter
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes