Coastal Delight: Crab and Shrimp Casserole

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz fresh lump crab meat
• 12 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk

Sauce & Aromatics

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon

Seasonings & Topping

• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Making the Creamy Base

1. Sauté Aromatics. In a large, oven‑safe skillet, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking 4‑5 minutes until they soften and turn translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and lemon zest; sauté an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
2. Build the Sauce. Sprinkle 2 tbsp all‑purpose flour over the softened vegetables, stirring constantly for 1 minute to form a light roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3‑4 minutes, and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Incorporate Cheese & Spice. Lower the heat to low and stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the smoked paprika, optional cayenne, and a final pinch of salt and pepper. This step creates the rich, velvety coating that will envelop the seafood.
4. Combine Seafood. Gently fold the seasoned shrimp and crab meat into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. The sauce should look glossy and slightly thick—if it appears too thin, let it simmer a minute longer.

Assembling & Baking

1. Prepare the Topping. In a small bowl, mix 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter and the chopped parsley. The butter should coat the crumbs evenly, giving them a golden sheen once baked.
2. Layer the Casserole. Spread the seafood‑cheese mixture evenly in the skillet or transfer to a 9‑inch baking dish. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture over the top, ensuring full coverage for a uniform crust.
3. Bake. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole in the center rack and bake for **20‑25 minutes**, or until the topping is deep golden‑brown and the interior is bubbling at the edges. A visual cue is a firm, lightly crisp top that releases a nutty aroma.
4. Rest & Serve. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for **5 minutes**. This brief rest allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld, making for cleaner slices and a more harmonious bite.