If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the sea, this Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe brings exactly that to your table. Bursting with tender lump crabmeat and succulent shrimp nestled in a creamy, savory sauce, topped with melty cheddar and golden breadcrumbs, it’s pure comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re making a family dinner or impressing guests, this casserole combines the best flavors and textures into one delightful dish that’s both elegant and approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role, showcasing layers of flavor, perfect consistency, and appealing color. The fresh seafood brings the star flavors, while the veggies and seasonings build depth. Simple pantry staples like butter, flour, and milk create the luscious sauce that ties everything together.
- Lump crabmeat: Use fresh or high-quality canned crab to ensure sweet, flaky bites throughout the casserole.
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a tender, slightly sweet contrast to the crab for balanced seafood goodness.
- Chopped onion: Brings a gentle sharpness and natural sweetness once sautéed.
- Chopped bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and mild, crisp flavor.
- Chopped celery: Provides subtle crunch and earthy undertones to lift the dish.
- Minced garlic: Offers aromatic warmth and depth of flavor.
- Butter: The rich, silky base for sautéing vegetables and creating the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: A thickening agent that gives the sauce its creamy texture.
- Milk: The main liquid that lends smooth creaminess to the casserole sauce.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory notes, balancing the richness of the milk and butter.
- Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend that brightens and complements crab and shrimp.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for gooey richness and a golden finish.
- Breadcrumbs: Create a crunchy topping to contrast the creamy interior.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, bright garnish perfect for finishing the casserole.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make clean up a breeze. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked casserole with a deliciously crispy crust.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Cook gently until these vegetables become tender and fragrant, releasing their sweet and savory aromas. This step builds the flavor base that will infuse the entire casserole.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken into a luscious sauce. This creamy base wraps the seafood and veggies in every bite.
Step 4: Add Seasoning and Seafood
Season the sauce generously with Old Bay, salt, and pepper to taste. Then gently fold in the lump crabmeat and shrimp, being careful not to break up the crab too much. This ensures each spoonful bursts with fresh seafood flavor woven throughout the sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the rich mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs. These toppings will melt and crisp beautifully during baking, adding irresistible texture contrasts.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and the breadcrumbs turn a gorgeous golden brown. This baking time allows all the flavors to marry and the topping to reach the perfect crunch.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the Crab and Shrimp Casserole with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish. This final touch adds both color and freshness to a rich, comforting dish.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley really makes the Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe pop visually and adds a hint of freshness that perfectly balances the rich seafood flavors. You could also try a squeeze of lemon or a dash of paprika for an extra zing and splash of color.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as the star, so pair it with light, crisp sides to complement its creamy richness. A crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or even garlic buttered green beans work wonderfully. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are ideal if you want to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve individual portions of the Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe in small ramekins, topped with a sprinkle of cheese and breadcrumbs before baking. Alternatively, spoon it over toasted baguette slices or creamy polenta to elevate the presentation and add a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect dish to enjoy again without losing any of its incredible flavors and textures.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to two months, allowing you to enjoy this seafood delight anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and the breadcrumbs regain some crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and maintain that lovely crunchy topping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen crabmeat and shrimp for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture that can affect the casserole’s texture.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
A mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne can mimic Old Bay’s unique flavor profile quite well.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free milk and cheese. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I add other seafood to the Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Scallops or chunks of firm white fish would complement the crab and shrimp nicely for a seafood medley.
How spicy is this casserole?
The Old Bay seasoning adds a gentle bit of spice and warmth without overwhelming heat, making it suitable for most palates.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that combines the freshest seafood with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a crunchy topping, and this Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe is exactly that. It’s straightforward to prepare yet feels like an indulgent treat every time. I can’t wait for you to make it and experience all the layers of flavor and texture that make it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will be on your regular rotation too!
Print
Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a rich and creamy seafood dish featuring tender lump crabmeat and succulent shrimp baked with sautéed vegetables, a flavorful seasoned sauce, and topped with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a comforting family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
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
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat 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 flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, continuing to cook and stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
- Add Seasonings and Seafood: Season the sauce with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and peeled shrimp to combine without breaking up the crab.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the seafood mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top to create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh lump crabmeat and large shrimp for tender texture.
- You can substitute half-and-half for milk for a richer sauce.
- Adjust Old Bay seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- If you prefer a gluten-free casserole, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
