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
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
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.
