When it comes to seafood dish recipes, this Easy Seafood Casserole is a standout. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with tender seafood like shrimp, scallops, crabmeat, and flounder. Unlike many complex recipes, this dish simplifies the process without compromising on taste. Even seafood skeptics will love this family-friendly meal, making it perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an elevated weeknight dinner, this recipe has everything you need for a stress-free, flavorful seafood feast.
Why This Seafood Casserole Stands Out
- Restaurant-Worthy Flavors: The perfect balance of delicate seafood and a rich, velvety sauce makes this casserole taste like a high-end dish.
- Quick and Simple: With just 15 minutes of prep and one dish, you can create an impressive meal in under an hour.
- Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorite seafood options to customize the recipe to your liking.
- Low-Carb Option: This dish skips the breadcrumbs and pasta, making it a great choice for those on low-carb diets.
Ingredients for Seafood Casserole
Seafood:
- 4 ounces flounder fillets (divided into two parts)
- 6 extra-large shrimp
- 6 large scallops
- 4 ounces lump crabmeat
Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- A splash of white wine
- flour
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon old bay seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped italian parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Seafood
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 extra-large shrimp
- 6 large scallops
- A splash of white wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. If you prefer, you can substitute olive oil for the butter. Once hot, add the shrimp and scallops to the pan. Sauté these for about a minute, just long enough to sear the outside. Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan, then incorporate the heavy cream, chicken broth, dijon mustard, and your chosen seasonings. Continue sautéing the mixture for an additional minute before removing the shrimp and scallops from the pan. Set them aside for later use.
2. Create and Thicken the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- flour
To the pan with the remaining seafood sauce, add two tablespoons of butter that have been dredged in flour (also known as beurre manie). This will act as a thickening agent. Let the mixture simmer over low heat until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and mix the seared scallops, shrimp, and crab meat into the sauce, ensuring all the seafood is well-coated. Set aside this seafood mixture for later use.
3. Prepare and Bake the Flounder
- 4 ounces flounder fillets (divided into two parts)
Preheat your oven to 350° F. Place the flounder fillets at the bottom of each casserole dish. Add a little water to the dish, then sprinkle the fillets with Old Bay seasoning. Bake the flounder in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After baking, drain any excess water from the casserole dish.
4. Assemble and Final Bake
- 1/2 teaspoon old bay seasoning (optional)
With the flounder pre-baked and the water drained off, add the prepared seafood mixture on top of the flounder fillets in the casserole dish. Sprinkle with additional Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor. Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake at 350° F for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped Italian parsley (optional)
After baking, remove the casserole dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle the Italian parsley over the dish. Enjoy your flavorful and perfectly baked seafood casserole!
Tips for Success
- Prevent Overcooking: Pat seafood dry and avoid overbaking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and dry scallops yield the best results.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce or add a splash of stock for a thinner consistency.
What to Serve with Seafood Casserole
- Rice or Pasta: A neutral base like white rice or angel hair pasta soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Vegetables: Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli with lemon juice adds a fresh contrast.
- Salad: A mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers a light and refreshing side.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Avoid the microwave to maintain the seafood’s texture.
FAQs About Seafood Casserole
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes! Thaw seafood completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and to avoid watery results.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
Simmer the sauce gently or add a beurre manié (butter and flour mixture) for a velvety texture.
Can I customize the seafood?
Absolutely! Swap flounder for cod or haddock, use all shrimp, or substitute crab with more scallops.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Seafood Dish Recipe
This Easy Seafood Casserole is proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated. The combination of creamy sauce and perfectly cooked seafood makes it a surefire hit. Whether you’re catering to seafood lovers or introducing someone to new flavors, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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