Crab and Shrimp Casserole: A Luxurious Seafood Dish

Transform your dinner table into a coastal dining experience with this elegant Crab and Shrimp Casserole. This indulgent dish combines succulent seafood with a rich, creamy sauce and perfect seasonings for a meal that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of sweet lump crab meat and tender shrimp creates a luxurious base, while the creamy sauce and thoughtfully chosen seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the seafood without overwhelming them. This casserole strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and sophisticated dining.

Essential Ingredients

For the Seafood:

  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 lemon, juiced

For the Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks, finely diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup seafood stock
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Required Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Strainer
  • Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Seafood

  1. Prepare the shrimp:
  • Clean and devein if necessary
  • Season with Old Bay
  • Sauté in butter until just pink
  • Remove and set aside
  1. Prepare the crab:
  • Pick through for shells
  • Keep lumps intact
  • Season lightly with Old Bay
  • Set aside

Making the Sauce

  1. Create the base:
  • Melt butter in saucepan
  • Sauté onion, celery, and pepper
  • Add garlic, cook until fragrant
  1. Make the roux:
  • Add flour to vegetables
  • Cook for 2 minutes, stirring
  • Gradually add milk and cream
  • Whisk in seafood stock and wine
  1. Finish the sauce:
  • Add cheese gradually
  • Stir in seasonings
  • Simmer until thickened
  • Adjust seasoning to taste

Assembly and Baking

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
  2. Layer the casserole:
  • Spread thin layer of sauce in dish
  • Add seafood mixture
  • Pour remaining sauce over top
  1. Prepare topping:
  • Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan
  • Mix with melted butter
  • Add parsley and paprika
  • Sprinkle over casserole
  1. Bake:
  • Cover with foil
  • Bake 20 minutes
  • Remove foil
  • Bake 10-15 minutes until golden

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Seafood Selection:
  • Use fresh, high-quality seafood
  • Avoid overworking crab meat
  • Don’t overcook shrimp
  • Check for shells thoroughly
  1. Sauce Preparation:
  • Keep heat moderate
  • Whisk constantly while thickening
  • Use room temperature dairy
  • Grate cheese fresh
  1. Assembly Tips:
  • Don’t overmix seafood
  • Layer carefully
  • Watch carefully when browning
  • Let rest before serving

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Make-Ahead Tips:

  • Prepare sauce day before
  • Clean seafood in advance
  • Assemble just before baking
  • Make topping separately

Storage Guidelines:

  • Refrigerate up to 2 days
  • Don’t freeze assembled casserole
  • Reheat gently to avoid overcooking
  • Store components separately

Variations and Adaptations

Different Seafood:

  • Lobster meat
  • Scallops
  • White fish
  • Crawfish

Sauce Variations:

  • Add mushrooms
  • Include spinach
  • Use different cheese blend
  • Add herbs

Topping Options:

  • Crushed crackers
  • Herb breadcrumbs
  • Cheese crisps
  • Fried onions

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

  • Asparagus
  • Mixed green salad
  • Rice pilaf
  • Crusty bread

Wine Pairings:

  • Chardonnay
  • Sauvignon Blanc
  • Pinot Grigio
  • Champagne

Troubleshooting Tips

Watery Casserole:

  • Ensure sauce is thick enough
  • Drain seafood well
  • Don’t overcrowd dish
  • Let rest before serving

Overcooked Seafood:

  • Pre-cook shrimp minimally
  • Watch baking time carefully
  • Check temperature frequently
  • Don’t overheat when reheating

Sauce Issues:

  • Whisk constantly
  • Add cheese gradually
  • Keep heat moderate
  • Use fresh cheese

This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is perfect for special occasions or when you want to bring a touch of coastal elegance to your dinner table. The combination of succulent seafood and creamy sauce creates a memorable dish that’s sure to impress your guests.