Creamy Seafood Casserole is a luxurious, oven-baked dish loaded with tender seafood, a velvety cream sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping. Combining shrimp, fish, and sometimes crab or scallops, this casserole delivers a rich, savory flavor that feels both comforting and elegant.
Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions, this dish brings restaurant-quality seafood right to your home kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Creamy
A smooth, indulgent sauce coats every bite.
Loaded with Seafood
A delicious mix of shrimp, fish, and more.
Easy to Make
Simple steps with impressive results.
Perfect for Entertaining
Great for serving guests or celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Seafood
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1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, fish chunks, crab, or scallops)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cream Sauce
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3 tablespoons butter
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk or half-and-half
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½ cup heavy cream
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Casserole
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1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
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½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
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1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Seafood
Pat seafood dry and season with salt and pepper.
Lightly sauté in olive oil for 2–3 minutes (just until slightly cooked). Set aside.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth.
Add garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish.
Add seafood evenly to the dish.
Pour the cream sauce over the seafood.
Top with shredded cheese.
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top (optional).
4. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Seafood Casserole
Don’t Overcook Seafood
It will finish cooking in the oven.
Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Seafood
Improves flavor and texture.
Season Lightly at First
Seafood can be naturally salty.
Add a Crunchy Topping
Breadcrumbs give a great texture contrast.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Seafood Casserole
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Garlic Herb Version
Increase garlic and add fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
Low-Carb Version
Skip breadcrumbs and use extra cheese.
Pasta Seafood Bake
Mix in cooked pasta for a heartier dish.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 1 month (best without topping).
Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with:
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Garlic bread
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Steamed rice
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Fresh salad
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Roasted vegetables
Final Thoughts
Creamy Seafood Casserole is a rich, comforting dish that brings together tender seafood, a luscious cream sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping. It’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent enough for special occasions.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this casserole is a delicious way to enjoy seafood in a warm and satisfying form.