Maritime Seafood Casserole
A rich and hearty seafood casserole featuring tender lobster, crabmeat, and shrimp combined with a creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly crust. Perfect for special occasions or family dinners, this dish offers a luxurious seafood flavor with comforting textures and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and celery in 3 tablespoons butter until tender.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper; gradually stir in milk.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add cooked onion, celery, and cheese slices; stir until cheese is melted.
- Add lobster, crabmeat, and cooked shrimp to the sauce.
- Pour mixture into a large casserole or individual dishes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the Maritime Seafood Casserole, consider adding some fresh herbs like dill or parsley. For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the milk with vegetable broth. If you're short on time, precooked seafood is a great option. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time; the casserole should be bubbly and golden brown to ensure it's heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light green salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or garlic bread. For a delightful twist, serve with a side of Herbed Shrimp And Feta Casserole to complement the seafood flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maritime Seafood Casserole contains roughly 584 calories, with 32g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), protein (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1809mg per serving (79% 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 use different types of seafood in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seafood such as scallops or mussels. Just ensure that the seafood is cooked before adding it to the casserole, as this will help maintain the right texture and flavor in the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve as a side dish with the casserole?
Consider serving this casserole with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh garden salad. A light, tangy vinaigrette can complement the richness of the casserole well. For added crunch, you might also enjoy some homemade Party Crunch Mix alongside the meal.
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).