This Seafood Casserole Is Rich and Creamy
Casseroles are ideal when you’re cooking for a crowd, and this Seafood Casserole is no exception. Whether you live near the coast or have access to high-quality seafood, this rich and flavorful dish is perfect for gatherings. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and lump crab make this casserole both indulgent and satisfying. Plus, casseroles allow for much of the prep work to be done in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the meal with your guests. Serve it with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread to complete the dish.
Did You Know?
Seafood Casserole is a great way to enjoy a variety of seafood in one dish. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health and brain function. Shrimp and crab are both low in calories and high in protein, making them excellent lean protein sources. The casserole also incorporates colorful vegetables and a cheesy sauce, which create a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The crunchy breadcrumb topping is a classic addition that completes the dish.
Yield:
6 servings
Ingredients:
4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound lump crab meat
2 cups cooked rice
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup bell pepper, diced (your choice of color and flavor)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (gluten-free if needed)
1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Seafood:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Personal Tip: Use fresh seafood for the best flavor, but frozen works well too—just thaw it first.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Personal Tip: Add the oil slowly to avoid burning it.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Personal Tip: Keep an eye on the vegetables to avoid overcooking them.
Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Personal Tip: Be sure to stir the shrimp evenly so they cook without getting tough.
Prepare the Casserole Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, crab meat, cooked shrimp and vegetable mixture, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Personal Tip: When mixing, fold the ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the crab meat.
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Personal Tip: Grease the dish thoroughly so nothing sticks.
In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
Personal Tip: For an extra-crispy topping, add a little more Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Casserole:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Personal Tip: Check it halfway through and cover with foil if the top is browning too quickly.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Personal Tip: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes to set properly.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Personal Tip: Use fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 450 | Fat, 20g | Saturated Fat, 8g | Carbohydrates, 30g | Fiber, 3g | Sugars, 6g | Protein, 35g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Bulk Buying: Purchase shrimp, crab meat, and rice in bulk to save money. Storing shrimp and crab meat in the freezer in portioned bags is a great way to ensure you always have some on hand for recipes like this.
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Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup: Making your own soup from fresh mushrooms and milk is cost-effective and healthier. You can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives, and any leftovers can be frozen for future meals.
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Reusable Baking Tools: Invest in reusable baking dishes and silicone mats. These make cleanup easier and reduce waste compared to disposable options. Plus, you’ll save money in the long run.
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Energy Efficiency: Cooking a large batch of rice at once saves time and energy. Keep the extra rice in the fridge to use in other meals throughout the week.
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Smart Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to eat.
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Ingredient Substitutions: If fresh crab meat is too expensive, you can use canned or imitation crab meat. Similarly, substitute vegetables like zucchini or broccoli if bell peppers are not in season.
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Flavor Enhancements: Adding a splash of white wine or fresh herbs like dill to the mixture before baking can give the casserole a fresh twist and enhance the overall flavor.
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DIY Breadcrumbs: Making your own breadcrumbs from leftover or stale bread is easy and budget-friendly. Toast the bread until dry, then process it into crumbs using a blender or food processor.
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Learning and Sharing: Joining cooking communities online can provide more recipe ideas and kitchen hacks. Sharing your experience with others not only fosters community but also helps you learn new cooking methods.
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Creative Presentations: Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil before serving to elevate the dish’s appearance. Pair with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a colorful and balanced meal.
Let’s Learn About Lump Crab Meat
Lump crab meat is harvested from the body of the crab and is prized for its delicate, sweet flavor and large pieces. It's perfect for recipes where the texture of the crab is important, such as in seafood casseroles or crab cakes. However, fresh lump crab can be expensive, so many opt for pasteurized or canned versions. These are more affordable and have a longer shelf life, but may be less flavorful. When choosing crab meat, always check for freshness and quality to ensure the best flavor in your dishes.