Description
A rich and indulgent seafood spinach casserole featuring tender shrimp, sweet lump crab, creamy cheeses, and a golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect as an elegant side dish for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 pound lump crab meat
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Drain excess liquid thoroughly to keep the mixture thick and creamy.
- Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until pink and opaque. Gently fold in the lump crab meat without breaking it apart.
- Stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth. Add Parmesan cheese, half of the mozzarella, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until thickened and creamy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and evenly sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the surface.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Let rest for several minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
Notes
- Drain spinach thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.
- Frozen spinach can be used if fully thawed and squeezed dry.
- Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Freeze unbaked casserole for longer storage; texture may slightly change after reheating.
- Substitute Gruyère or white cheddar for mozzarella for a deeper flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the richness.
- For gluten-free preparation, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
