Hearty Easy Seafood Casserole Recipe: Ocean’s Finest Comfort

Crafting this simple seafood casserole reminds me of coastal summer evenings with my grandmother.

Memories of ocean breezes and fresh catch dance through my kitchen.

She always believed comfort came from uncomplicated ingredients blended with love.

Delicate fish pieces nestle perfectly among creamy textures and subtle herbs.

Ocean-fresh flavors promise a meal that feels both elegant and approachable.

My family typically requests seconds before finishing their first serving.

Reheat Seafood Casserole For A Rich Return

• Seal leftover seafood casserole in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Wrap casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date for tracking.
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place individual portions in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each to distribute warmth evenly.

What to Pair with Easy Seafood Casserole

• Savor Crisp White Wine Pairing: Chardonnay's buttery notes perfectly complement the creamy seafood casserole, enhancing its rich textures and delicate seafood flavors.
• Zesty Citrus Salad Side: Fresh lemon-dressed mixed greens cut through the casserole's richness, offering a bright and refreshing counterpoint to the creamy dish.
• Create Crusty Bread Accompaniment: Warm, crusty sourdough or French bread helps soak up the delicious sauce, providing a delightful textural contrast and extra flavor absorption.
• Select Sparkling Aperitif: Prosecco or champagne's effervescence cleanses the palate between bites, making each mouthful of the seafood casserole feel light and enjoyable.

Seafood Casserole with Cheesy Creamy Layers

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Replace rice or pasta with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly version that cuts carbohydrates while maintaining the creamy seafood flavor.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and swap cream soup for a homemade gluten-free cream sauce to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast, replace sour cream and mayo with coconut cream, and use plant-based butter for the topping to create a dairy-free alternative.
• Spicy Cajun Remix: Add cayenne pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes to introduce a bold, zesty Cajun-style profile that elevates the seafood casserole's traditional flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen seafood for this casserole?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before cooking to prevent a watery casserole.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains breadcrumbs and cream soup. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cream soup alternatives.

• What type of fish works best in this seafood casserole?

White fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia are excellent choices because they have mild flavors that blend well with other seafood and won’t overpower the dish.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Reasons To Serve Seafood Casserole Tonight

• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Whip up this seafood casserole in under an hour, perfect for busy families craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Packed with familiar ingredients like shrimp, fish, and cheese, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, making mealtime a breeze.
• Versatile Comfort Food: Easily adaptable with optional rice or pasta, this casserole offers flexibility for different tastes and dietary preferences while providing a creamy, satisfying dinner option.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: Simple sautéing and mixing techniques mean even novice cooks can create a restaurant-worthy seafood dish with minimal cooking skills and effort.

Easy Seafood Casserole Cooking Elements

• Shrimp: Sweet and tender seafood that adds delicate flavor and protein.
• Crab Meat: Rich, soft seafood with a delicate marine taste, can use lump or imitation.
• White Fish Fillets: Mild, flaky fish that absorbs surrounding flavors, cod or tilapia work best.

• Rice or Pasta: Optional starchy component to bulk up the casserole.
• Onion: Provides sweet, sharp base flavor and aromatic foundation.
• Garlic: Adds depth and pungent undertone to the seafood mixture.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creamy base that helps bind ingredients together.
• Sour Cream: Adds tangy richness and smooth texture.
• Mayonnaise: Contributes creaminess and subtle tang.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides sharp, cheesy flavor.
• Old Bay Seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend with warm, complex profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall taste.

• Breadcrumbs: Creates crispy, golden crust on casserole.
• Melted Butter: Helps breadcrumbs brown and adds rich flavor.

Easy Seafood Casserole Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to a warm 350°F, creating the perfect cozy environment for your seafood masterpiece.

Step 2: Sizzle and Soften

Heat a skillet and gently cook onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.

Add succulent shrimp and delicate fish, letting them dance in the pan for a quick 2-3 minutes until just barely cooked.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Seafood Mixture

• Cooked seafood
• Tender crab meat
• Creamy condensed soup
• Velvety sour cream
• Rich mayonnaise
• Shredded cheese
• Carefully selected seasonings

Stir everything together until well blended and looking absolutely mouthwatering.

Step 4: Build the Casserole Base

If you’re in the mood for extra substance, fold in some rice or pasta to make the dish even more satisfying.

Transfer the entire mixture into a generously greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping

In a separate small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, creating a golden, crunchy crown for your casserole.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it transform for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges start to bubble with excitement.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve the casserole piping hot, ready to wow everyone at the dinner table.

Seafood Casserole Made Easy With Creamy Oven-Bake Instructions

• Cook shrimp and fish just until they turn opaque to maintain tender, juicy texture without becoming rubbery.
• Swap seafood types based on preference or availability, mixing salmon, cod, or scallops for diverse flavor profiles.
• Toast breadcrumbs before adding melted butter to enhance golden color and create extra crispy topping.
• Prepare casserole up to 24 hours in advance, storing covered in refrigerator and adding breadcrumb topping just before baking.
• Use low-sodium soup and reduced-fat cheese to create a healthier version without compromising delicious taste.

Easy Seafood Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Hearty “Seafood Casserole” brings coastal comfort to dinner tables with creamy richness and oceanic delight. Flaky fish, tender shrimp, and a golden breadcrumb topping promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Seafood:

• 1/2 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1/2 pound crab meat (lump or imitation)
• 1/2 pound white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia), cut into chunks

Sauce and Dairy Components:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Aromatics and Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (175°C), ensuring an optimal cooking temperature for the seafood casserole.
2. Transform raw onions and garlic into a fragrant base by sautéing them in a skillet until they become translucent and aromatic.
3. Introduce shrimp and fish to the skillet, gently cooking them for a brief 2-3 minutes to preserve their delicate texture and prevent overcooking.
4. Merge the cooked seafood with crab meat in a spacious mixing bowl, creating a rich marine foundation for the casserole.
5. Incorporate creamy elements like soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise, blending them thoroughly to develop a smooth, cohesive mixture.
6. Fold in cheese and carefully selected seasonings, ensuring an even distribution of flavors throughout the seafood medley.
7. If desired, integrate rice or pasta into the mixture, adding substance and additional texture to the casserole.
8. Transfer the complete seafood mixture into a generously greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to promote uniform cooking.
9. Craft a crispy topping by combining breadcrumbs with melted butter, then delicately sprinkle this golden layer across the casserole’s surface.
10. Slide the prepared dish into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the contents bubble enticingly.
11. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley to add a vibrant touch of color and fresh herb essence.
12. Serve the casserole warm, inviting diners to enjoy the harmonious blend of seafood and creamy textures.

Notes

• Select fresh, high-quality seafood for the best flavor and texture in your casserole.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp and fish during initial sautéing to prevent rubbery consistency.
• Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and checking soup ingredients for hidden gluten.
• Customize protein options by substituting seafood with chicken or tofu for varied dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg