Crab and Shrimp Casserole

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Introduction:
Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a luxurious, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a delightful dinner. This casserole combines tender crabmeat and succulent shrimp with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a seafood lover’s dream, bringing the taste of the coast to your table in a comforting and elegant dish.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound lump crabmeat, picked over for shells
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Optional Additions:

  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms for added flavor
  • 1/4 cup chopped celery for extra crunch
  • A squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty touch

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Shrimp:

  • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and melt over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic (and mushrooms and celery, if using). Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, crabmeat, cooked rice, and parsley. Pour the cheese sauce over the seafood mixture and stir gently to combine.
  • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

5. Prepare the Topping:

  • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley until well combined. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake the Casserole:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

7. Serve:

  • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Use fresh, high-quality crabmeat and shrimp for the best flavor.
  • Make sure to cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving (based on 8 servings)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 30-35g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 15-20g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 200-250mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 700-800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
  • Sugars: Approximately 2-3g
  • Protein: Approximately 25-30g

Recommendation:
Serve Crab and Shrimp Casserole with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this rich and creamy casserole. Enjoy this indulgent dish as a centerpiece for your next special dinner or holiday celebration!

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