Seafood Au Gratin
A creamy seafood au gratin featuring crab and shrimp in a rich cheese sauce, topped with cracker crumbs, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in cornstarch to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add American cheese slices, lemon juice, seasoned salt, and stir until smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the seafood in a casserole dish.
- Top with cracker crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute American cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor or use a blend of cheeses. If you're short on time, pre-cooked seafood like shrimp or crab works well. This dish also pairs beautifully with Cream Toast for a delightful brunch option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Seafood Au Gratin hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley for color. It pairs nicely with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside Quesadilla Bread, which adds a nice crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Au Gratin contains roughly 542 calories, with 1g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite seafood such as shrimp, scallops, or crab. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding to the casserole to achieve the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and seafood mixture ahead of time. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cornstarch for thickening?
If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. Just ensure to cook it a little longer to eliminate the raw flour taste. Alternatively, arrowroot powder can also work as a gluten-free option.
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).