Seafood casserole is a comforting dish that brings the ocean’s bounty to your dinner table. It combines various types of seafood with a creamy sauce. Often, it’s topped with cheese or breadcrumbs.
The beauty of a shrimp casserole or crab casserole lies in its adaptability. You can customize it based on your preferences or seafood availability.
What is Seafood Casserole?
A seafood casserole is a baked dish that features a mix of seafood. This includes shrimp, crab, scallops, and white fish. The seafood is mixed with a rich, creamy sauce and baked until golden and bubbly.
A classic shrimp casserole or crab casserole can be prepared in about 50 minutes. This includes 20 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking.
Why Choose Seafood for Casserole?
Seafood casseroles offer a delicious way to add nutritious protein to your diet. A typical recipe yields 6 servings, with each portion containing about 500 calories. The dish includes 1 lb (454 grams) each of shrimp and crab meat, providing a substantial amount of protein.
The combination of seafood with vegetables like celery and onions creates a balanced meal. It’s both tasty and satisfying.
The versatility of seafood casseroles extends to their ingredients as well. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider using skim milk instead of whole milk, and opt for low-fat mayonnaise and cheese.
This flexibility makes seafood casseroles a favorite among home cooks. They offer both flavor and health benefits.
Ingredients List for Seafood Casserole
Making a tasty cod casserole or seafood bake begins with the right ingredients. This recipe mixes fresh seafood, pantry staples, and tasty add-ins for a dish you’ll remember.
Fresh Seafood Options
For our seafood bake, we’ll use a mix of:
- 1 pound cooked, deveined shrimp (cut into bite-sized pieces if large)
- 6 ounces canned tuna
- 6 ounces frozen crabmeat (for fresher taste and flakier texture)
Key Pantry Staples
Gather these essential ingredients:
- 6 ounces long grain and wild rice mix
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2% milk (or any percentage you prefer)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Dry bread crumbs for topping
- 4 tablespoons butter (1 for cooking, 3 melted for topping)
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Enhance your cod casserole with these flavorful additions:
- 1 cup each of chopped celery, onion, and green bell pepper
- Canned mushrooms (pre-cut and cooked for convenience)
- Pimiento peppers for color and sweetness
This seafood bake serves 1 portion at 309 calories, with 14g protein and 17g fat. Bake in a 13×9-inch dish for 40-50 minutes until golden and bubbling. Store leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat gently to preserve the seafood’s texture.
Preparing the Seafood
Getting your seafood ready is a key step in creating a mouthwatering seafood gratin. Let’s dive into the process of cleaning and selecting the right fish for your dish.
Cleaning and Preparing Shellfish
Start by cleaning your shellfish. Peel and devein 6 x-large shrimp. Rinse 6 large scallops under cold water. For the 4 oz of lump crab meat, pick through to remove any shell pieces. This prep takes about 7 minutes but ensures your seafood au gratin is free from unwanted bits.
Selecting the Right Fish Types
For a delicious seafood gratin, flounder is an excellent choice. Use 4 oz of flounder fillets, split into two portions. Check for any bones and remove them. Flounder cooks quickly, needing only about 10 minutes in the oven at 350°F.
| Seafood Type | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 6 x-large | Peel and devein |
| Scallops | 6 large | Rinse in cold water |
| Crab meat | 4 oz | Remove shell pieces |
| Flounder | 4 oz (2 portions) | Check for bones |
The Creamy Sauce Base
The heart of a delicious seafood pasta bake or creamy seafood casserole is its velvety sauce. This sauce wraps your seafood in flavor, making a comforting dish for any time. Let’s explore the key ingredients and steps to make this dreamy sauce.
Essential Ingredients for the Sauce
To make the perfect creamy base for your seafood casserole, you’ll need:
- 6 tablespoons of butter
- 1/4 cup (28 grams) of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of white wine
- 1/2 cup of grated cheese (Parmesan works well)
- 1/4 cup of tomato puree
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Steps to Create a Velvety Texture
Here’s how to get a smooth, creamy texture for your seafood pasta bake:
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add the white wine and continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Mix in the grated cheese, tomato puree, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until velvety smooth.
This sauce is the perfect base for your seafood casserole, coating each bite with rich, creamy goodness. The recipe makes 8 servings, with each portion about 405 calories. You can adjust the seasoning to make your creamy seafood casserole uniquely yours.
Assembling the Casserole
Now that you’ve prepared your ingredients, it’s time to bring your seafood casserole recipe to life. Proper assembly ensures every bite of your shrimp casserole is packed with flavor. Let’s walk through the process step by step.
Layering Your Ingredients
Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place a layer of cooked rice at the bottom. This forms a perfect base for absorbing the delicious flavors. Next, add your seafood mix. Use 7 shrimp, 6 scallops, and 4 oz of crab or lobster meat.
Then, add your vegetables – celery, onion, green pepper, mushrooms, and pimientos.
Tips for Even Distribution
To ensure your shrimp casserole cooks evenly, spread the ingredients in uniform layers. Pour your creamy sauce over the top, making sure it seeps into all the nooks and crannies. For extra richness, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 3/4 cup of broth to your sauce.
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed buttery crackers or a mix of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a delightful texture contrast to your seafood casserole recipe. Remember, your casserole will bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, so arrange your ingredients with this in mind.
Baking Instructions
Ready to make your seafood bake golden and bubbly? Let’s get into the baking steps for your cod casserole. Baking right is crucial to bring out the flavors and cook the seafood perfectly.
Recommended Temperature and Time
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature cooks seafood evenly without drying it out. Put your casserole in a 13×9 inch baking dish. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until the top is golden and the sauce bubbles.
Signs of Doneness
Your seafood bake is ready when:
- The top is golden brown and crispy
- The sauce is bubbling around the edges
- The internal temperature reaches 145°F
- Fish flakes easily with a fork
- Shrimp turn pink and opaque
To avoid overcooking, check your cod casserole after 35 minutes. If it’s not done, bake in 5-minute intervals. Seafood can quickly become overdone, so watch it closely.
Once your seafood bake is ready, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors mix and makes serving easier. Enjoy your cod casserole with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a full meal.
Serving Suggestions
Your seafood casserole is ready to impress your guests! It’s great for family dinners or special events. Let’s look at some ways to serve and make your dish even better.
Accompaniments to Complement Your Casserole
Try pairing your casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies. They balance the rich flavors. Crusty bread or garlic toast are perfect for the creamy sauce.
For a zesty kick, serve lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the seafood taste.
Want to impress? Serve with a chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines match the seafood without overpowering it. Or, try sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic choice.
This recipe makes 6 servings, each with about 585 calories. It’s a filling meal by itself. But, these sides can make it a real feast.
Conclusion
Seafood casserole is a comforting, versatile dish that brings the fresh flavors of the ocean right to your table. This savory bake offers a satisfying way to enjoy a variety of seafood in one delicious bite. With endless possibilities for customization and a straightforward preparation process, it’s no wonder seafood casserole remains a beloved classic. So grab your favorite ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to dive into a warm, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.