There’s a special kind of comfort that comes from a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven, and my Easy Seafood Casserole Recipe embodies that warmth. Picture this: tender shrimp, succulent scallops, and delicate fish all intertwined in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a golden finish that beckons you to dive in. This dish transformed my weeknight dinners, offering a fuss-free, one-dish solution that’s perfect for busy families and picky eaters alike.
After a long day, the thought of preparing dinner can feel overwhelming. That’s why this versatile casserole is my go-to—it requires minimal prep and allows for easy substitutions based on whatever seafood you have on hand. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, I promise this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table. So grab your baking dish and let’s create a meal that’s not only simple but also satisfies those cravings for something home-cooked and delightful.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Seafood Casserole Recipe
Simplicity at Its Best: This Easy Seafood Casserole comes together in just one dish, making clean-up a breeze!
Rich, Creamy Flavor: A delightful blend of seafood enveloped in a velvety sauce ensures each bite is bursting with taste.
Flexibility Galore: Customize with your favorite seafood or make it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor!
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will appreciate the accessible flavors—perfect for satisfying everyone’s palate!
Quick and Convenient: With minimal prep time, this dish fits seamlessly into your busy weeknight routine.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it up at gatherings or special occasions, and watch it disappear in a flash!
Ingredients
• • Easy Seafood Casserole Recipe IngredientsFor the Seafood
Flounder Fillets – A mild protein option, easily replaceable with cod, haddock, or sole.
Shrimp (medium or large, peeled and deveined) – Fresh or thawed shrimp add sweetness and texture to the casserole.
Scallops (dry sea scallops) – Choose dry for a delicate flavor; wet scallops can dilute the taste.
Crabmeat (lump or jumbo lump) – Adds a luxurious texture to the dish, with backfin as a wallet-friendly swap.
For the Sauce
Butter – Richness is essential, but olive oil works as a non-dairy substitute.
Heavy Cream – Creates a deliciously creamy sauce; light cream is suitable for a lower calorie option.
Chicken Broth – Provides depth in flavor; opt for low-sodium to keep it heart-healthy.
Dijon Mustard – A splash of tanginess to enhance flavors; feel free to omit for a simpler note.
Old Bay Seasoning – A classic that captures the essence of seafood; substitute with your preferred fish seasoning if needed.
For the Finish
Italian Parsley – Fresh herb for garnish, lending brightness; dill or chives can substitute for a different flavor.
How to Make Easy Seafood Casserole
Sauté Seafood: Begin by melting butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp and scallops for about 1 minute, then deglaze with white wine. Remove the seafood from the pan and set aside.
Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add a butter and flour mixture (beurre manie) to create a roux. Gradually incorporate heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Combine Seafood and Sauce: Gently fold the sautéed seafood back into the rich sauce, making sure every piece is well-coated with the velvety goodness.
Preheat and Prepare Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a casserole dish, layer flounder fillets, seasoning them generously with Old Bay. Bake for 10 minutes to set the base.
Layer and Bake: After draining any excess water, pour the seafood mixture over the flounder. Season once more, then bake for an additional 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of freshly squeezed lemon juice for added brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Easy Seafood Casserole?
Make your mealtime a delightful experience by creating complementary dishes that elevate this creamy seafood delight.
- Butter Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for scooping up that rich sauce, it adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Steamed Asparagus: Bright green and tender, asparagus offers a fresh, slightly crispy contrast, balancing the casserole’s creaminess beautifully.
- Mixed Greens Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad adds a refreshing crunch that lightens your plate while enhancing the meal.
- Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice infused with a hint of lemon zest absorbs the casserole’s rich sauce, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw soaked in tangy dressing brings crunchy texture and zest to the table, making each bite more exciting.
- White Wine: Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc; its acidity cuts through the richness of the casserole for a perfect sip.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this airy, decadent treat offers a sweet finish to your meal, leaving everyone smiling and satisfied.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Seafood Casserole preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can sauté the seafood and prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld overnight in the refrigerator. Simply store them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F, layer the flounder in your casserole dish, and bake for 10 minutes. Next, pour the prepped seafood mixture over the flounder and bake for an additional 25 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy a deliciously effortless meal with minimal effort, just as comforting as when made fresh!
Storage Tips for Easy Seafood Casserole
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezer: Although it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to preserve texture.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven covered at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much when reheating.
- Avoid Refrigerating: Do not store in the fridge for longer than two days, as it may compromise the flavor and texture of your Easy Seafood Casserole.
Expert Tips for Easy Seafood Casserole
- Don’t Overcook: Seafood can easily become rubbery; shrimp and scallops only need about 3-4 minutes of cooking to stay tender.
- Dry Before Cooking: Patting the seafood dry prevents excess moisture, ensuring a non-watery Easy Seafood Casserole at the finish.
- Stir Gently: When mixing seafood with the sauce, use a gentle hand to maintain the integrity of the delicate pieces.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Stir the cream sauce over medium-low heat to keep a creamy consistency and avoid it breaking or curdling.
- Resting is Key: Let the casserole rest after baking; this helps to thicken the sauce and deepen the flavors for a more enjoyable dish.
Easy Seafood Casserole Variations
Feel free to experiment and make this dish truly your own, as each twist adds a unique flavor adventure!
- Seafood Swap: Use any combination of seafood you love, such as salmon or lobster, for a decadent twist. This opens up delightful new taste profiles!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter, dairy-free option without sacrificing creaminess.
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh thyme or tarragon in place of parsley for a fragrant herbal boost that elevates the dish.
- Seasoning Twist: For a spicy kick, incorporate Cajun seasoning instead of Old Bay for a zesty, warm flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Veggie Mix-In: Enhance the casserole by adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms, introducing a hearty texture and additional layers of flavor.
- Grain Boost: Layer cooked quinoa or brown rice under the casserole for added fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the seafood wonderfully.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top for the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy layer that everyone will love.
- Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the baked casserole just before serving to brighten the flavors and elevate the overall dish!
Easy Seafood Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of seafood is best for this casserole?
Absolutely! You can use a variety of seafood for this Easy Seafood Casserole. Flounder, cod, and haddock work beautifully as the base, while shrimp and scallops add sweetness and a special touch. Feel free to substitute depending on what you have available—I often make it with whatever seafood is fresh at the market that day!
How should I store leftovers?
For best results, refrigerate any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which could make the dish soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just give it a gentle reheat in the oven.
Can I freeze the Easy Seafood Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. I recommend warming it in the oven (covered) at 350°F for about 20 minutes; add a splash of cream if the sauce seems too thick.
What if I have allergies to shellfish?
No problem at all! Simply omit the shrimp and scallops from the recipe and double up on other seafood like fish or crabmeat. You can also experiment with other protein options like chicken or vegetarian substitutes, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy the dish.
How can I ensure my seafood remains tender?
Great question! To keep shrimp and scallops tender, I recommend cooking them for no longer than 3-4 minutes. After sautéing, they will cook a bit more in the oven, so it’s important not to overdo it in the pan. Make sure they are patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture, which keeps the casserole from becoming watery.
What should I serve with the casserole?
I often suggest serving this Easy Seafood Casserole with a side of plain white rice or angel hair pasta to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. Steamed asparagus or a simple green salad also make for a perfect accompaniment, balancing out the richness of the dish beautifully!
Easy Seafood Casserole Recipe: Creamy Comfort for Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by melting butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp and scallops for about 1 minute, then deglaze with white wine. Remove the seafood from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a butter and flour mixture (beurre manie) to create a roux. Gradually incorporate heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Gently fold the sautéed seafood back into the rich sauce, making sure every piece is well-coated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a casserole dish, layer flounder fillets, seasoning them generously with Old Bay. Bake for 10 minutes.
- After draining any excess water, pour the seafood mixture over the flounder. Season once more, then bake for an additional 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.