Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of the sea with the Crustacean Delight Casserole, a tantalizing dish featuring the rich tastes of shrimp and crabmeat bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce, and crowned with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. This casserole is not only a palate pleaser but also a wonderful centerpiece for gatherings or a fulfilling family dinner. Follow this comprehensive guide to recreate this ocean-inspired delicacy in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb crabmeat, fresh or canned
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the correct temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp, fresh or canned crabmeat, diced celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to distribute evenly.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Next, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the mayonnaise, grated cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the seafood mixture to the sauce, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.