Are you craving a comforting, yet elegant meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy crabmeat and shrimp casserole! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a casual weekend gathering. It's packed with flavor, boasts beautiful presentation, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy home cooks. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious homemade dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crabmeat, picked over for shells
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large size)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice (short-grain or long-grain)
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This preparation ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
Prepare the Seafood: Gently rinse the crabmeat and pat it dry with paper towels. Set aside. Similarly, rinse the shrimp and pat them dry. This step helps to prevent a watery casserole.
Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. This is the heart of your casserole's flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, crabmeat, and shrimp to the creamy mixture. Gently fold everything together until the seafood is evenly distributed throughout. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break up the delicate crabmeat.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture over the cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious homemade crab and shrimp casserole!
Tips for the Best Crab and Shrimp Casserole:
- Fresh is Best: If possible, use fresh crabmeat and shrimp for the best flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked shrimp will become tough. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little extra kick.
- Variations: Substitute different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This crabmeat and shrimp casserole recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that are easy to prepare. It's a perfect way to enjoy delicious dishes and elevate your homemade cooking skills. Enjoy!