Theresa'S Seafood Surprise
Seafood Surprise combines tender crab and shrimp with creamy cheese and crunchy Ritz crackers, baked to perfection. Ideal for seafood lovers seeking a comforting, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put 1 package crushed Ritz crackers in melted margarine on the bottom of a large casserole dish.
- Combine crab meat and shrimp and sauté in 1 tablespoon margarine with Seafood Magic or liquid crab seasoning.
- Combine Velveeta cheese, evaporated milk, and Tabasco sauce to make the cheese mixture.
- Place the seafood mixture over the cracker layer in the casserole dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the seafood.
- Sprinkle additional crushed Ritz crackers on top.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C), covered, until the dish bubbles on all sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to the seafood mixture. If you can't find Seafood Magic, any seafood seasoning will work in a pinch. For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cheese and milk. You can also replace crab meat with scallops or lobster for a different twist on this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce. Consider serving with a chilled white wine or a refreshing lemon-infused beverage for a delightful dining experience.
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) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may make the seafood rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Theresa'S Seafood Surprise contains roughly 428 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh crab and shrimp, but ensure they are cooked properly before adding them to the casserole. Sauté them until fully cooked and then mix with the other ingredients. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure everything is heated through.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the seafood with hearty vegetables like artichokes, mushrooms, and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of seafood seasoning. A blend of cream cheese and nutritional yeast can mimic the creamy texture, making it a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the seafood mixture. You could also mix in some red pepper flakes with the cheese sauce to elevate the heat level. Just be mindful of your heat tolerance when adjusting the spice!
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).