Let me tell you about a dish that has star quality in my house: Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole. A creamy, cheesy, seafood creeper that is as comfortable as it is elegant. It is one of those dished that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without slaving away in the kitchen for hours. For any occassion, this recipe is your golden ticket, whether it is a dinner party or you want some indulgence.
The beauty of this casserole is simplicity. The dish is one splendid mix of crab meat, shrimp and a creamy sauce that is perfectly seasoned. Oh, and the topping? Well, it is only a crispy golden mix if delicious bread crumbs and cheese that everyone wants to have seconds for. You can put this dish in many categories as it is simple or can appear more fancy for a dinner party, a cozy family dinner or special occasion.
What I love about this recipe is that it is a great “people” recipe. The aroma of seafood and cheese wafting through the house has a magical quality, and, without fail, this dish elicits conversation, laughter, and sometimes a fun little “fight” over who gets the last bite; who doesn’t love a delicious, comforting casserole that wows at the same time?
Another bonus – this recipe is so forgiving! No matter your experience level in the kitchen, you will master it quickly. The ingredients are simple, the steps are simple, and it is almost always impressive. Oh, and you can use up leftover seafood or anything from your pantry, too.
So, if you find yourself in the mood to assemble a dish that is equally easy and exceptional, you have found it in this Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole. This recipe has earned its place in my recipe rotation, and there is no doubt it will earn its place in yours, too. Now let’s go have some fun!
Why You Should Make This Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole
This Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole is so good, you will just feel like you are indulging in something more than ordinary and it’s honestly so simple, there is no reason not to make it. The combination of crab and shrimp gives this seafood casserole a rich and bold flavor that is truly satisfying.
The best part about this casserole is how versatile it is. It can work as a simple weeknight dinner or a fancy holiday dish. And the creamy sauce is made with a blend of real and processed cheese (yes, please, I’m not mad about it) and seasonings that ties it all together so perfectly.
Oh! And let’s talk about that crispy topping. The combination of bread crumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the top a crunchy bite that complements the sumptuously creamy filling so well. It’s a delightful texture and flavor combo that everyone’s going to love.
And to top it all off, this casserole is a time-saver! It really does take minimal time to prepare and the cooking process is so simple that you’ll get to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your family and friends.
A Family Favorite: The Story of This Recipe
This Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole occupies a special place in my heart—and my family’s heart as well. It all started on a chilly night when I was looking for something to do with leftover crab and shrimp. I decided I would make it into a casserole, but little did I know that it was going to be magical.
My husband’s reaction who is usually a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy was an immediate “this is restaurant quality!” I had hardly a serving and he was reaching for seconds. And my picky little one who often turns her nose up at seafood asked for seconds.
Since that first night, this casserole has been a family staple recipe. It is also what we bring when attending family gatherings, potluck meals, or even to have lazy dinner on a Sunday. It has created family togetherness, encouraged family conversation and created memories we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
Why You should try this Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole
There are so many reasons to try this Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole. I will list a few:
1. It is loaded with flavor. Crab and shrimp are rich seafood flavors that really create a seafood medley that is savory and satisfying.
2. It is totally easy to prepare. It doesn’t take many steps to make this dish and in a short time you will have something that looks like it came from a fine dining restaurant!
3. It can serve either as an appetizer or a side dish – this casserole can do it all. It has creamy filling, crispy topping and it is sure to please!
4. It is a great dish to serve at a family meal or for entertaining. It will always be a hit at the dinner table or party!
Suggestions For Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole
- Use fresh seafood whenever possible. Canned crab and frozen shrimp work well, but fresh seafood will elevate this dish to a whole new level!
- Do not leave off the topping! The crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan topping is a delicious addition that helps to elevate the dish.
Possible Substitutions and Variations
- Substitute the crab and shrimp for lobster or scallops.
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to create a gluten-free dish.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle of cayenne pepper to spice it up.
Make a Healthier Version of Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Substitute low-fat mayo and cheddar cheese.
- Increase the vegetables by adding spinach or bell peppers.
Final Thoughts On Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole
And there you have it! An Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole that isn’t only delicious will impress your friends! Please let us know how your dish turned out, and check out some of our other recipes:
Easy Crab and Shrimp Casserole
Description
Indulge in a decadent Crab and Shrimp Casserole, a luxurious blend of succulent seafood, creamy sauce, and flavorful spices baked to perfection. This dish is a true delight for seafood lovers, offering a rich and comforting dining experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, shrimp, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
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Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 3652.16kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 272.93g420%
- Saturated Fat 80.48g403%
- Cholesterol 1307.07mg436%
- Sodium 8040.42mg336%
- Potassium 2912.53mg84%
- Total Carbohydrate 64.2g22%
- Dietary Fiber 4.01g17%
- Sugars 13.32g
- Protein 231.52g464%
- Vitamin A 5648.56 IU
- Vitamin C 53.83 mg
- Calcium 2117.44 mg
- Iron 10.27 mg
- Vitamin D 1.38 mcg
- Vitamin E 10.17 mg
- Vitamin K 623.55 mcg
- Thiamin 0.87 mg
- Riboflavin 1.56 mg
- Niacin 9.34 mg
- Vitamin B6 1.09 mg
- Folate 334.47 mcg
- Vitamin B12 43.64 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 3.81 mg
- Phosphorus 3138.29 mg
- Magnesium 491.47 mg
- Zinc 41.61 mg
- Selenium 242.76 mcg
- Copper 6.29 mg
- Manganese 0.99 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
