Carolina Deviled Seafood
A flavorful seafood casserole combining shrimp, crab, oysters, and scallops with vegetables and spices, topped with cracker crumbs, perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare all seafood; cook until tender, adding oysters afterwards.
- Cut up vegetables; cook the celery, onion, and pepper until tender and add to seafood with the mashed potatoes, red pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
- Add 1 or 2 eggs with sufficient cracker crumbs to achieve the right consistency to fill greased ramekins or shells.
- Fill the ramekins or shells with the seafood mixture, then sprinkle with cracker crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake in a hot oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot with lemon as a garnish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or some fresh herbs like parsley or dill. You can substitute the seafood based on availability; for example, use lobster or even canned crab if fresh isn't an option. Ensure the mashed potatoes are well-seasoned to enhance the overall taste, as they act as a binding agent in the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Carolina Deviled Seafood hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges to add brightness. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For a larger spread, consider serving it alongside Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Cakes or other seafood recipes to delight your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place the seafood mixture in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming it at 350°F until heated through. This prevents the dish from drying out and helps maintain its flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolina Deviled Seafood contains roughly 403 calories, with 10g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1156mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the seafood mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and fill the ramekins or shells just before baking. This can help the flavors meld together, and it will save you time on the day of serving.
What can I use instead of crab meat?
If you don't have crab meat, shrimp or even a mix of other seafood like scallops and fish can work well. Adjust the seasoning to ensure that the dish remains flavorful, as different seafood may require varying amounts of salt and spices.
How do I know when the seafood is cooked properly?
Seafood should be cooked until it is opaque and firm to the touch. Shrimp should be pink and slightly curled, while scallops should be milky white and firm. Be careful not to overcook, as seafood can become rubbery.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).