Ocean's Bounty Seafood Casserole: A Taste of the Sea

Seafood Casserole is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the ocean right to your table. Combining a variety of seafood with a rich, creamy sauce, this casserole is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weeknight dinner.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Seafood Casserole

It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this savory and satisfying dish.

Seafood CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb scallops
• 1 lb crab meat
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the seafood: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, scallops, and crab meat, cooking until just opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
4. Make the sauce: Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
6. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, seafood, sautéed onions, and cheese sauce until well combined.
7. Spread the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy the rich, creamy taste of this seafood casserole!

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of seafood?

Absolutely! You can customize this casserole with your favorite seafood. Try adding lobster, clams, or mussels for a different flavor profile.

2. Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.

3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

6. Is it possible to make a low-carb version of this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or omit the rice altogether and use more vegetables or seafood for the stuffing.

7. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of garlic bread to complement the rich flavors.

Conclusion

Ocean's Bounty Seafood Casserole is a luxurious dish that combines the best of the sea with creamy, savory goodness. Perfect for any special occasion or a comforting dinner at home, this recipe is easy to prepare and versatile enough to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of the ocean right at your table!