Easy Seafood Casserole

Introduction

Easy Seafood Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal effort. This dish brings together tender seafood, a creamy sauce, and a golden, crispy topping that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility; you can mix and match your favorite seafood, from shrimp to fish fillets, making it easy to cater to different tastes. Add a few fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, and a dash of seasoning to elevate the dish even further.

Perfect for busy weeknights or special weekend dinners, Easy Seafood Casserole will quickly become a family favorite in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing your take on it! Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious meal!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Seafood lovers
• Family gatherings or potlucks
• A comforting meal that’s easy to make

Why You’ll Love This Easy Seafood Casserole

Here’s why this Easy Seafood Casserole is sure to become a go-to dish in your kitchen:

• Seafood Delight: A combination of shrimp, scallops, and crab creates a rich, flavorful mix.
• Creamy Comfort: A creamy, cheesy sauce binds everything together for a rich, indulgent dish.
• Simple Ingredients: Only a few basic ingredients are needed, making this recipe both easy and accessible.
• Quick & Easy: It takes less than 40 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
• One-Pan Wonder: This casserole is simple to assemble, with minimal cleanup afterward.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550-600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Seafood Casserole:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb scallops, thawed if frozen
• 1 cup crab meat (fresh or canned)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Highlights

• Seafood: The combination of shrimp, scallops, and crab brings a variety of textures and flavors, making the casserole rich and hearty.
• Creamy Sauce: A blend of heavy cream, chicken broth, and cheese creates a silky, indulgent sauce that perfectly complements the seafood.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Adds a crispy finish, contrasting beautifully with the creamy casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make your Easy Seafood Casserole:

Prepare the Seafood:

1. Cook the Seafood: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and scallops, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Crab Meat: If using fresh crab meat, gently flake it into small pieces. If using canned, drain well before using.

Make the Sauce:

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, and stir for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
5. Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Casserole:

7. Combine Seafood and Sauce: Add the cooked seafood and crab meat into the sauce. Stir gently to coat all the seafood in the creamy sauce.
8. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the seafood mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.

Bake and Serve:

10. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
11. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

How to Serve Easy Seafood Casserole

This Easy Seafood Casserole is perfect for:

• Family-Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a communal meal.
• With Crusty Bread: Pair with a slice of garlic bread or a baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
• In Individual Portions: Serve in smaller individual casseroles or ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• With a Light Salad: A fresh green salad can help balance the richness of the casserole.

Additional Tips for Easy Seafood Casserole

Follow these tips for the best Easy Seafood Casserole:

• Seafood Choices: Feel free to mix and match the seafood in the casserole, adding lobster, clams, or even mussels for variety.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Just bake before serving.
• Cheese Options: If you prefer a different cheese, try using Gruyère or mozzarella for a milder, creamier texture.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

Recipe Variations for Easy Seafood Casserole

Here are 10 variations to customize your Easy Seafood Casserole:

1. Lobster and Shrimp: Swap out some of the scallops for lobster and shrimp for a more indulgent, seafood-rich casserole.
2. Creamy Spinach and Seafood: Add 2 cups of fresh spinach to the sauce for added flavor, color, and a touch of earthiness.
3. Mushroom and Seafood: Sauté sliced mushrooms and mix them into the casserole for an earthy, savory twist that complements the seafood.
4. Spicy Cajun Seafood: Add Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the casserole for a spicy, bold flavor.
5. Cheddar and Parmesan Blend: Use a mix of sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese for a sharper, more flavorful cheese blend.
6. Lemon and Herb Seafood: Add the zest of one lemon and a handful of fresh parsley or thyme to brighten the dish with a fresh, citrusy finish.
7. Gluten-Free Seafood Casserole: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
8. Baked Seafood Pasta Casserole: Add cooked pasta to the casserole, then top with extra cheese and bake for a more filling, hearty meal.
9. Pesto Seafood Casserole: Stir in 1/4 cup of basil pesto to the sauce for an Italian-inspired, herbaceous flavor.
10. Seafood and Bacon: Add crumbled, crispy bacon to the casserole for a smoky, savory crunch that complements the creamy seafood base.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole and cover tightly. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Special Equipment

Here are a few helpful tools for making this casserole:

1. Large Skillet: To cook the seafood and prepare the sauce.
2. Whisk: For stirring the sauce to ensure it’s smooth and lump-free.
3. Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this casserole.
4. Grater: For grating Parmesan cheese and other cheeses.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of liquids and flour.

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Seafood Casserole

1. Can I use frozen seafood?
   Yes, frozen seafood works great! Just make sure to thaw it completely before using it in the casserole.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. Bake before serving.
3. Can I use different seafood?
   Absolutely! Feel free to use other types of seafood, such as lobster, mussels, or even a seafood medley.
4. How can I make the casserole spicier?
   Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.
5. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, you can use a combination of mozzarella, Gruyère, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.

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Conclusion

Easy Seafood Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. The tender seafood combined with a rich, creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that is both indulgent and easy to prepare.

What makes this casserole truly special is its versatility; you can easily customize the seafood to suit your preferences, whether you prefer shrimp, scallops, or a mix of both. Pair it with your favorite vegetables or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added layer of flavor.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner, Easy Seafood Casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection. I can’t wait for you to try this delicious dish! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you make it your own! Enjoy every comforting bite!