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Experience a celebration of coastal flavors with this Crab and Shrimp Casserole, a luxurious dish perfect for gatherings or a hearty weeknight dinner. Packed with tender seafood and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole brings a taste of the ocean right to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lump crabmeat
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Add Seafood:
- Gently fold in the crabmeat and shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The gentle folding ensures that the delicate crabmeat does not break apart.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Transfer the seafood and sauce mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. This not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh, herbal taste that complements the seafood beautifully.
Serve this Crab and Shrimp Casserole hot, ideally with a side of light salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. It’s a dish sure to impress at any dinner party or during a festive family gathering!
