Crab and Shrimp Casserole
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a creamy, cheesy seafood dish that's perfect for any occasion. Combining shrimp, lump crabmeat, and a rich, flavorful sauce, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, it’s the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers. Easy to make, this casserole is great for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep. Plus, it’s versatile enough for gluten-free or extra-spicy variations. A true crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
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
Instructions
- Preheat 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 butter. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Make the creamy sauce: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half, stirring until thickened (3-5 minutes). Stir in the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add seafood and seasonings: Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in shrimp, crabmeat, shredded cheeses, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir to combine.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the seafood mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs.
- Cheese alternatives: Substitute cheddar and mozzarella with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina.
- Spicy option: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.