Name: Crab and Shrimp Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned); 3 tbsp butter; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Crab and Shrimp Casserole Recipe

This casserole is packed with flavor from the fresh seafood, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping. It’s easy to prepare and makes a great one-dish meal. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that feels indulgent, this dish is a guaranteed favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp, peeled and deveined
lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
butter
onion, chopped
celery, chopped
garlic, minced
cream of mushroom soup
mayonnaise
sour cream
shredded cheddar cheese
breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers
Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning
salt and pepper
lemon juice
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and seasoning. Mix well until combined.
Gently fold in the crab meat and shrimp, taking care not to break up the crab too much.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy topping.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or leave them off entirely.
Vegetable Additions: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Cheese Swap: Try using Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Rice Base: Serve over cooked rice or mix cooked rice into the casserole for a more filling dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through. For freezing, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat?

Yes, imitation crab can be used as a budget-friendly alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Should the shrimp be cooked before adding to the casserole?

No, raw shrimp will cook fully in the oven during baking. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined.

Can I use canned soup alternatives?

Yes, homemade cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup can be used if you prefer from-scratch ingredients.

What kind of crab meat is best?

Lump crab meat is ideal for texture and flavor, but backfin or claw meat can also be used depending on availability and budget.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.

Is it gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free soup and breadcrumb substitute.

Can I add pasta?

Yes, cooked pasta like penne or elbow macaroni can be mixed in for a seafood pasta bake.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?

Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 325°F until heated through to keep it moist.

How do I prevent the topping from burning?

If the topping browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. With its creamy base, tender seafood, and golden topping, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.