Seafood Casserole is a rich, indulgent dish that brings the bounty of the ocean to your dinner table. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend meal, this casserole combines a variety of seafood such as shrimp, scallops, and crabmeat, each adding their unique flavor and texture. Enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb or cracker topping, this casserole is baked until golden and bubbling. The result is a warm, comforting dish with layers of savory flavors that are enhanced by hints of wine and cheese. Seafood Casserole is not only a delicious way to enjoy seafood but also a show-stopping main course that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound scallops
- 1/2 pound crabmeat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- If necessary, cut the shrimp and scallops into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Seafood:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add shrimp and scallops, cooking just until they start to turn opaque. Remove seafood from skillet and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish, adding the crabmeat.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add flour to the remaining butter and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and wine, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the sauce over the seafood in the baking dish. Mix gently to ensure all the seafood is coated.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot, ideally with a side of steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Seafood Casserole is a feast for the senses, offering a creamy, comforting texture with the refined flavors of assorted seafood. Each bite delivers a taste of the ocean, making it a perfect dish for those who appreciate the delicacies that seafood has to offer.
