Seafood Scallop Shells
A rich seafood dish featuring crab, shrimp, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, baked in shells for an elegant appetizer or light main course suitable for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cream of celery soup, milk, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, crab meat, shrimp, and sliced mushrooms in a bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into scallop shells or small ovenproof dishes.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs and drizzle with melted butter.
- Cover and freeze if making ahead; thaw before baking.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you don't have crab meat, you can substitute it with canned tuna or cooked chicken. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor significantly. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to incorporate ingredients from other seafood recipes, such as adding scallops or lobster for a gourmet twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these seafood scallop shells as an elegant appetizer or a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty bread. For a complete meal, pair them with a chilled glass of white wine, enhancing the seafood flavors. They also make a delightful addition to a seafood platter alongside Shrimp Wheels or Deviled Seafood.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the scallop shells in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the seafood tough and rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Scallop Shells contains roughly 702 calories, with 24g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1080mg per serving (47% 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 fresh seafood instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh seafood! Make sure to cook the seafood beforehand. Fresh shrimp and crab meat will give the dish a delightful taste and texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is properly cooked through.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish in advance, cover it tightly, and freeze it. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking it as instructed. This makes it a convenient choice for entertaining or meal prep.
What can I substitute for the cream of celery soup?
If you don’t have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or even homemade white sauce as a base. Mix in a little celery salt or chopped celery for a similar flavor profile, keeping the essence of the dish intact.
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).