There’s something magical about cooking seafood, isn’t there? The moment you crack open a shell of sweet crab or toss perfectly pink shrimp into a sizzling pan, you know you’re in for a treat. One of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up is crab and shrimp casserole. It’s creamy, comforting, and brings such joy to the table. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the smiles on their faces as they took their first bites were priceless! This casserole is not just a dish; it’s a hug on a plate. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy weeknights, or whenever you just want to enjoy something delicious and satisfying. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your home, too!
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering crab and shrimp casserole, you’ll need some simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 pound crab meat, ideally lump for the best texture
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined—make sure they’re nice and fresh!
- 2 cups cooked rice, leftover rice works great
- 1 cup sour cream, for that creamy goodness
- 1 cup shredded cheese, I love using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions, for a bit of crunch and flavor
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise, to enhance the creaminess
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, because garlic makes everything better
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, a must for that classic seafood flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste, don’t forget to season!
Gather these goodies, and you’re all set to create something delicious!
How to Prepare Crab and Shrimp Casserole
Making this crab and shrimp casserole is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love every step of it! Let’s dive right in!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden and bubbly. So go ahead and set that oven while you prep the other ingredients!
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the crab meat, shrimp, cooked rice, sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, mayonnaise, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly—this is where you want to make sure all those delightful flavors get evenly distributed. No one wants a bite without crab or shrimp, right?
Transfer to Baking Dish
Next, grab a greased baking dish (I usually use a 9×13 inch dish). Carefully transfer your mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps it cook uniformly, giving you that delicious, creamy texture throughout!
Baking Instructions
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and bubbly, and your kitchen starts to smell like heaven! Take a peek after 25 minutes—if it looks inviting, it’s time to take it out!
Cooling and Serving
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before diving in. This little wait helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve. I love pairing mine with a fresh side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every cheesy, seafood-filled bite!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note: the nutritional values provided for this crab and shrimp casserole are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For the most accurate information, it’s always a good idea to calculate based on your exact ingredients. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth, making every bite irresistible.
- Delicious seafood flavor that’s sure to impress family and friends.
- Hearty and filling, this casserole is a complete meal in itself.
- Great for gatherings; it serves six generous portions!
- Leftovers are just as tasty, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
Trust me, once you try this crab and shrimp casserole, it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite in your home!
Tips for Success
To make your crab and shrimp casserole shine, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to substitute the crab meat with imitation crab if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option—it’s still delicious! For a little extra kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes; every oven is a bit different, so check for that golden top around the 25-minute mark. And when serving, pair it with a zesty lemon wedge or a dollop of tartar sauce for an extra pop of flavor!
Variations of Crab and Shrimp Casserole
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this crab and shrimp casserole! For starters, switch up the cheese—try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. You can also toss in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten things up. Want to add a bit more color and nutrition? Chop up bell peppers or spinach and fold them into the mixture before baking. And if you’re a fan of crunch, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top for a delightful crispy finish. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious crab and shrimp casserole, you’ll likely have some leftovers, and that’s a good thing! To store them, simply let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to indulge again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheat, just be sure to cover them to keep moisture in. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
FAQ About Crab and Shrimp Casserole
I get a lot of questions about this delightful dish, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones! First off, can you substitute the crab meat? Absolutely! Imitation crab works just fine, and you won’t lose the yummy flavor. As for the shrimp, if you’re not a fan, you can omit them altogether or replace them with scallops or even lobster for a more luxurious twist!
Now, what’s the best way to serve this casserole? I love pairing it with a crisp side salad or some buttery garlic bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. If you’re wondering about cooking times, check for that golden bubbly top after about 25 minutes. If you want a deeper brown, feel free to give it a few extra minutes in the oven. And remember, it’s just as tasty the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time!
For more delicious seafood recipes, check out this crab and shrimp stuffed salmon recipe!
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Crab and Shrimp Casserole: 7 Reasons You’ll Adore It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious crab and shrimp casserole that combines seafood with creamy goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound crab meat
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine crab meat, shrimp, cooked rice, sour cream, cheese, green onions, mayonnaise, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and golden on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Can substitute crab meat with imitation crab if desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: crab and shrimp casserole, seafood casserole, baked seafood dish