Description
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a seafood lover's dream! Packed with succulent shrimp and lump crabmeat, this creamy, cheesy casserole is full of flavor. A crisp, golden panko breadcrumb topping adds the perfect contrast to the rich and savory interior. It’s a delicious and easy dish ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
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 casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk or half-and-half, stirring until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes). Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
- Remove from heat. Gently fold in shrimp, crabmeat, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the seafood mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- For the topping, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
- For gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Cheese variations: Try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina for a different flavor.
- For added heat: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seafood mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
