Seafood Bake
A savory seafood bake combining shrimp or crab with celery, onion, and cheese, topped with pecans and cracker crumbs, perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together, except half of the chopped pecans, cracker crumbs, and the cheese.
- Put the mixture into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with cracker crumbs and the remaining chopped pecans that have been mixed together.
- Top with grated sharp cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on texture, try using crushed tortilla chips instead of cracker crumbs. If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can substitute for mayonnaise. You can also add diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor. Make sure to chop the celery finely to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Seafood Bake alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Crabbies(Appetizer) as a starter. For a festive touch, consider a side of garlic bread or a light pasta salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the seafood bake in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Bake contains roughly 451 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1755mg per serving (76% 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 frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp or crab. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before mixing them into the ingredients. This helps maintain the dish's texture and flavor.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this seafood bake?
Absolutely! You can substitute the seafood with diced mushrooms or a medley of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to enhance the flavors of the vegetables.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).