Description
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a rich and flavorful seafood bake combining succulent lump crabmeat and tender shrimp in a creamy, seasoned sauce with sautéed vegetables. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, it’s a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound lump crabmeat
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Liquids
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
Dry Ingredients & Seasonings
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the all-purpose flour to the sautéed vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Season and add seafood: Season the sauce with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to your liking. Carefully fold in the lump crabmeat and shrimp, ensuring they are evenly incorporated without breaking up the crabmeat too much.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the seafood mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs to create a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the mixture is bubbly and the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth or low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper along with Old Bay seasoning.
- To make the breadcrumb topping extra crispy, you can mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
- This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
