If you have a soft spot for seafood casseroles that bring a cozy, comforting vibe with every bite, you are going to fall in love with this Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe. It’s a creamy, cheesy blend of tender crab meat and succulent shrimp that’s enhanced by just the right hint of seasoning and baked to bubbling perfection. This dish is a perfect centerpiece for a family dinner or a special occasion where you want to impress without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’ll quickly become a beloved recipe you reach for time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each element not only adds amazing layers of flavor but also contributes to the casserole’s rich texture and irresistible aroma. From the tender shellfish to the creamy binding components and the crispy golden topping, every ingredient plays a key role.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For sautéing the onions and enriching the overall flavor.
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the casserole.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a subtle but aromatic kick to the seafood blend.
- 8 oz cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, chopped: Tender and juicy, these little gems shine in the casserole.
- 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells: The star ingredient offering delicate texture and a gentle ocean flavor.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: Soaks up the creamy sauce while adding body to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, lending gooeyness and a slight tang.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates a luscious, creamy base that holds everything together.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood seasoning that brings warmth and a little spice.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle hint of peppery heat.
- ¼ cup chopped parsley or green onions (optional): Freshness and a pop of green color for brightness.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping): Gives the casserole a crunchy, golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs): Helps the breadcrumbs brown perfectly and adds buttery flavor.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Next, melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions until they soften and become translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and give it just about 30 seconds until fragrant. This onion-garlic base will infuse the entire dish with wonderful aroma and flavor.
Step 2: Combine the Seafood and Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, cooked rice, and your sautéed onion and garlic. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream for that luscious creaminess. Sprinkle in the Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. If you want a bit of fresh green brightness, fold in your chopped parsley or green onions now.
Step 3: Assemble and Top
Transfer this beautiful mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is consistent. If you love a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle them lovingly over the surface. This step adds a textural contrast that elevates the casserole from great to truly spectacular.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s heated through and bubbling around the edges. If you added breadcrumbs, switch to the broiler for the last 1 to 2 minutes to allow them to turn a gorgeous golden brown. Be sure to watch carefully so they don’t burn. Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to settle. This pause helps the flavors meld wonderfully and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions makes a simple but beautiful garnish that adds a burst of color and freshness. For a touch of elegance, consider a light drizzle of lemon juice or a few lemon wedges on the side, which brightens the creamy seafood flavors.
Side Dishes
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe pairs perfectly with crisp green salads dressed with vinaigrette or a tangy slaw to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also fantastic to soak up the creamy sauce and make the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins to give each guest their own personal portion. Another idea is to serve it on a bed of fresh greens or roasted vegetables, which adds a nutrient boost and makes for a stunning presentation that impresses every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe, simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its wonderful flavors or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover casserole by placing portions in freezer-safe containers. For the best outcome, freeze for up to 2 months. Make sure to label your container with the date so you can enjoy this seafood delight later without any guesswork.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. If time is tight, reheating in the microwave works too—just cover and heat in short increments to keep the casserole creamy and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab and shrimp instead of cooked?
Yes, but be sure to cook the fresh crab and shrimp before combining with the other ingredients, as this recipe is designed for already cooked seafood. Cooking them beforehand helps avoid overcooking during baking and preserves the best texture.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe?
If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be great alternatives that maintain creaminess while adding a slight tang. Just keep in mind these substitutions may slightly change the flavor profile.
Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumb topping?
Absolutely! You can swap traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for a crunchy topping that fits your dietary needs.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time and helps the flavors meld even more.
What is the best way to prevent the casserole from drying out?
Using a mixture of mayonnaise and sour cream keeps the casserole creamy and moist. Also, avoid overbaking by checking closely towards the end of the cooking time, especially if you add a breadcrumb topping that can brown quickly under the broiler.
Final Thoughts
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and the taste of the sea right to your table. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for holidays or celebrations. I encourage you to try it out and watch how this luscious, cheesy seafood dish becomes a favorite in your recipe rotation as well.
Print
Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a rich and creamy seafood bake that combines succulent cooked shrimp and lump crab meat with cheesy, flavorful ingredients and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any seafood lover’s night, it’s a comforting main course that pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread.
Ingredients
Seafood and Base
- 8 oz cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup cooked white rice
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
Dairy and Condiments
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, cooked white rice, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors. If using, fold in chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh herbal note.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to create a uniform casserole layer.
- Prepare and Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): If using breadcrumbs, combine the ½ cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to add a crisp, golden crust when baked.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional): If breadcrumbs were added, switch the oven to broil and cook the casserole for an additional 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to toast the breadcrumb topping to a golden brown without burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set for easier portioning and enjoying.
Notes
- This casserole is ideal for holiday meals, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a comforting seafood dish.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread for a balanced meal.
- You can substitute brown rice or cooked pasta for the white rice if preferred.
- For a gluten-free option, skip the breadcrumbs or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Ensure crab meat is carefully checked for shells to avoid unpleasant bites.
