🦀 Southern Crab & Shrimp Casserole 🍤

A velvety Southern bake where tender shrimp and sweet crab nestle into a luscious cream base, crowned with a golden buttery crust. The aromas rise warm and coastal, carrying the richness of a seaside feast.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cut into chunks
• 1 lb lump crab meat, checked for shells
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sauté Veggies: In a skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Make Cream Base: Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Simmer until thickened, 3–5 minutes.
4. Add Seafood: Fold in shrimp and crab meat. Stir in Parmesan, Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes until shrimp begin to turn pink.
5. Assemble: Pour mixture into baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over top.
6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Serve: Garnish with parsley. Serve warm with rice, crusty bread, or a green salad.

Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Kcal: ~420 per serving

✨ Creamy, coastal, and comforting—this casserole brings Southern seafood charm to your table.