Description

The Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a seafood lover’s dream. This dish is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful combination of tender shrimp and succulent crabmeat, enhanced with special seasonings to add a touch of spice. Perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or when you’re in the mood for something both comforting and classy. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance for hassle-free entertaining. Let’s dive into this incredible seafood casserole that is guaranteed to be an instant hit!

Ingredients

• For the Casserole:
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 lb lump crabmeat, picked over for shells
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 medium bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• For the Topping:
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven:Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Sauté the Vegetables:In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Sauce:Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Add the Seafood and Seasonings:Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the chopped shrimp, lump crabmeat, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Assemble the Casserole:Pour the seafood mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Prepare the Topping:In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

Bake the Casserole:Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy:Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the rich and delicious flavors of this Crab and Shrimp Casserole!

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the creamy sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. With its creamy, cheesy texture and perfectly seasoned shrimp and crab, every bite is a decadent treat. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal, this casserole is sure to impress. Try it today and bring the taste of the sea straight to your table!