Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a luxurious and comforting seafood dish that combines tender lump crabmeat, juicy shrimp, and a creamy sauce with a golden breadcrumb and cheese topping. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or warm bread.
The savory flavors of Old Bay seasoning and the creamy sauce elevate the seafood while the cheesy, crispy topping adds a delightful texture. This casserole is easy to assemble and bake, making it an ideal choice for seafood lovers looking for a hearty and flavorful dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich and Creamy: A decadent sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the crab and shrimp.
• Perfectly Textured: The breadcrumbs and cheese topping provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps for a showstopping dish.
Ingredients
• 1 pound lump crabmeat
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic.
3. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
1. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add the Seafood
1. Gently fold the crabmeat and shrimp into the sauce.
2. Stir until the seafood is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
1. Transfer the seafood mixture to the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese, followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Bake
1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
1. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before garnishing with chopped parsley.
2. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy seafood delight.
Tips
• Fresh or Frozen Seafood: Use fresh crabmeat and shrimp for the best flavor, but thawed frozen options work well too.
• Customize the Topping: Add Parmesan cheese or mix breadcrumbs with melted butter for extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole (without garnishing) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Its creamy sauce, tender seafood, and cheesy, crunchy topping make it a meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
