This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a deliciously creamy and indulgent dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal. It combines tender lump crabmeat and succulent shrimp with a flavorful sauce, all topped with gooey cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
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:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Season the sauce with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
- Seafood Quality: Choose high-quality lump crabmeat and large shrimp for the best flavor and texture in the casserole.
- Proper Roux Technique: Ensure the roux is cooked to a smooth paste before gradually adding the liquids to prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Balanced Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to suit your taste preferences, ensuring a well-seasoned dish.
- Golden Brown Topping: Bake the casserole until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top for optimal texture and flavor.
- Fresh Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the casserole before serving to add color and freshness to the dish
How to Store It:
- Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Properly stored, it should last for 3-4 days.
- When reheating, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through.