If you're craving a rich and creamy seafood dish, this Cheesy Scalloped Crab and Shrimp Casserole is a must-try! Packed with succulent shrimp and tender crab meat, this decadent casserole is smothered in a cheesy sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs for the perfect finishing touch. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress anyone at the table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb crab meat, shredded
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, add the crab meat and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Add the Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
In a baking dish, layer the shrimp and crab mixture. Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the seafood.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp and crab with a medley of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Version: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a little heat.
Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar cheese for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp and crab meat will work perfectly fine in this casserole. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
How do I prevent the seafood from overcooking?
Be careful not to overcook the shrimp and crab when sautéing. They only need a few minutes in the skillet as they will continue cooking in the oven.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual.
What should I serve this casserole with?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Scalloped Crab and Shrimp Casserole is one of those dishes that feels luxurious yet is easy to make. The combination of shrimp, crab, and creamy cheese sauce creates a comforting, indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m cooking for a special gathering or just craving something extra comforting, this dish never disappoints. Try it the next time you want to impress your friends and family with something unforgettable!
Recipe:

Cheesy Scalloped Crab and Shrimp Casserole
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and creamy seafood casserole made with shrimp and crab meat, topped with a cheesy sauce and crispy breadcrumbs for a decadent and comforting meal.
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb crab meat, shredded
2 cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the crab meat and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Add the Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- In a baking dish, layer the shrimp and crab mixture. Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the seafood.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Frozen seafood works well in this recipe as long as it's thawed before cooking.
You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it.
For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the seafood with a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes.
For a different flavor, swap the cheddar cheese for Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 230mg