Description
Creamy Louisiana Crab and Shrimp Casserole melds coastal flavors with rich, comforting textures from bayou kitchens. Seafood enthusiasts savor layers of succulent shellfish nestled in a velvety sauce that whispers southern charm, inviting you to indulge in pure culinary bliss.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 lb (454 g) shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 lb (454 g) crabmeat (fresh or canned)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup (150 g) celery (diced)
- ½ cup (75 g) onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter (for the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons (15 g) all-purpose flour (for the roux)
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 cup (100 g) sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- ½ cup (60 g) breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 pinch salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon (4 g) fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven, creating an ideal baking environment at 350°F (175°C), which will ensure perfect cooking temperature.
- In a spacious mixing vessel, gently combine the delicate seafood components – succulent shrimp, tender crabmeat, crisp celery, aromatic onion, and minced garlic – blending them into a harmonious mixture.
- Craft a velvety sauce base by melting butter in a saucepan, introducing flour and cooking until it develops a golden, frothy texture. Slowly incorporate milk, whisking methodically to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Remove the sauce from heat and fold in mayonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, and seasoning, creating a rich, flavorful binding agent for the seafood.
- Carefully fold the seafood mixture into the creamy sauce, ensuring each morsel is generously coated with the luxurious mixture.
- Transfer the seafood medley to a thoroughly greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Sprinkle a delicate layer of breadcrumbs across the surface, providing a crisp, golden topping that will add textural contrast.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake until the top transforms into a bubbling, golden-brown crust, approximately 30 minutes.
- Allow the casserole to rest briefly after removing from the oven, which helps the ingredients settle and intensifies the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbal freshness. Serve immediately alongside a crisp salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Prep this seafood delight ahead of time by mixing ingredients in advance and refrigerating until ready to bake.
- Ensure fresh, high-quality crab and shrimp for the most delectable flavor and texture in your casserole.
- Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce that perfectly binds the seafood and breadcrumb topping.
- Choose sharp cheddar cheese to add depth and tanginess to the overall dish’s flavor profile.
- Customize the breadcrumb topping with panko for extra crispiness or add herbs like thyme for more complexity.
- Allow the casserole to rest briefly after baking to help it set and make serving easier without falling apart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg