Here’s a rich and comforting Crab and Shrimp Casserole — creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender seafood. It’s a Southern-style favorite that’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a dinner party or holiday meal.
🦀🦐 Crab and Shrimp Casserole
📋 Ingredients:
Seafood:
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8 oz lump crab meat (drained, shells removed)
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8 oz shrimp (peeled, deveined, chopped) — small or medium size
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Salt & pepper to taste
Sauce Base:
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3 tablespoons butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 small green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
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½ cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
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1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Binding & Topping:
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1 cup cooked white rice or cooked pasta (optional but helps bind)
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½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
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2 tablespoons melted butter
🥣 Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9″ or similar casserole dish.
2. Sauté Veggies:
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In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
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Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft (about 4–5 minutes).
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Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
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Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
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Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
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Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
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Stir in Old Bay, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
4. Add Cheese:
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Stir in cheddar and half of the Parmesan until melted and smooth.
5. Combine with Seafood:
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In a large bowl, combine cooked rice or pasta (if using), shrimp, crab, lemon juice, and the cheese sauce.
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Mix gently to avoid breaking up the crab too much.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
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Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter.
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Sprinkle on top of the casserole, followed by the remaining Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake:
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
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Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a crispier top.
🍽️ Serve With:
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Garlic bread or buttery rolls
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Side salad with a citrus vinaigrette
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Steamed asparagus or green beans
🧊 Leftovers:
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Refrigerate up to 3 days.
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Reheat gently in the oven or microwave (add a splash of milk if needed).