West Coast Casserole
A creamy seafood casserole with cheese, olives, and a hint of mustard, perfect for seafood lovers and elegant family dinners with a rich, savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in butter until translucent.
- Blend in flour, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and milk; cook, stirring until thick and smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Remove from heat; fold in half of the sliced olives, shrimp, and crab meat.
- Transfer mixture to a buttered 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until bubbly.
- Garnish top with remaining sliced olives and parsley sprigs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using garlic or adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce. You can substitute the shrimp and crab meat with other seafood or even use imitation crab for a more budget-friendly option. If you prefer a bit more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish. Make sure to cook the mixture until thick to ensure a creamy casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as Nanna Salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be served alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner. For a delightful seafood-themed meal, consider serving it with a side of The Chef'S Gulf Coast Shrimp Creole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of West Coast Casserole contains roughly 844 calories, with 13g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (127% of the Daily Value), iron (75% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through completely.
What type of cheese is best for this casserole?
A good melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of the two works best for this casserole, as they provide a creamy texture and rich flavor. You can also experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added depth.
Can I use frozen seafood instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp and crab meat can be used in this recipe. Just ensure that they are fully thawed and drained before adding them to the casserole. This makes preparation easier and is a great way to keep up with seasonal seafood recipes.
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).