Creamy Dreamy Seafood Bake
Recipe Introduction
Ever craved that warm, comforting feeling of a proper luxury fish pie , but without all the fuss of pastry? That's exactly what this seafood bake is all about! It's like a hug in a dish, packed with all the good stuff from the sea.
Honestly, who can resist a cheesy seafood bake ?
About this Seafood Bake Recipe
This isn't your average seafood casserole . Inspired by classic French cooking, this seafood bake brings together a mix of yummy seafood in a creamy sauce.
Think posh seafood comfort food topped with a lovely golden, cheesy layer. It's a bit fancy, a lot tasty, and perfect for impressing your mates or just treating yourself! It is a creamy seafood gratin .
Why You'll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about this seafood bake is how satisfying it is. With all that protein from the shrimp, scallops, and crab, it's a proper good meal that keeps you full and happy.
Plus, it's an absolutely perfect baked seafood dinner for special occasions. It feels fancy, tastes incredible, and honestly, it's surprisingly simple to make at home.
It's an elegant seafood main course .
It takes about an hour all in. You’ll need around 25 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes in the oven.
This recipe makes about 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small get-together. I mean, who doesn’t love a bit of shrimp and scallop bake ? Especially one with a splash of seafood bake with sherry .
Now, let's talk ingredients the stars of this show!
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Seafood Bake Ever!
Let's get this seafood bake recipe going! This isn't just any baked seafood dinner ; it's proper seafood comfort food .
Trust me, it’s surprisingly easy to throw together. Think of it as a luxury fish pie , without the faff of making pastry.
Oh my gosh, you're gonna love this creamy seafood gratin !
Main Ingredients: Get Ready to Feast!
Here’s what you’ll need. Don't skimp on quality, especially with the seafood. We are making an elegant seafood main course .
- Shrimp (Prawns): 1 lb (450g) , peeled and deveined. Go for the big boys, you know? The fresher the better. Avoid grey looking ones.
- Sea Scallops: 1 lb (450g) , patted dry. Again, fresh is best! They should smell like the sea, not fishy.
- Lump Crab Meat: 8 oz (225g) , picked over for shells. Honestly, this is where you can splurge. The flavour really comes through!
- Smoked Salmon: 4 oz (115g) , roughly chopped. Adds a lovely smoky depth.
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tbsp (56g) . Get the good stuff!
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup (30g) .
- Whole Milk: 2 cups (475ml) .
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup (120ml) .
- Dry Sherry (or White Wine): ¼ cup (60ml) . Don't use cooking sherry! A proper dry sherry makes all the difference.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp .
- Salt: ½ tsp , or to taste.
- Black Pepper: ¼ tsp , or to taste.
- Cayenne Pepper: A pinch (optional, but recommended!).
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp , chopped.
- Fresh Tarragon: 1 tbsp , chopped (optional, but adds a lovely anise flavour).
- Gruyere Cheese: 1 cup (100g) , shredded.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50g) , shredded.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: ¼ cup (30g) .
- Melted Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp .
Spice Up Your Life: Seasoning Notes
For the base, keep it simple but effective. This cheesy seafood bake gets its depth from the sherry and Dijon.
Feel free to swap the tarragon for chives or dill. Don't be shy with the pepper! It adds a nice warmth.
Tools of the Trade: Equipment Needed
Honestly, you probably have everything already! You need a large skillet (or sauté pan), a 9x13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish, a whisk (essential for a smooth sauce!), and some mixing bowls.
If you don't have a proper baking dish, a casserole dish will do! Easy peasy.
This seafood casserole is gonna be EPIC!
Diving Deep into a Dreamy Seafood Bake
Alright, let's chat about something seriously delicious: a seafood bake . Honestly, this is the kind of dish that screams comfort but still feels kinda fancy, you know? Like, think creamy seafood gratin meets ultimate seafood comfort food .
It's the perfect baked seafood dinner for a special occasion or just when you're craving something a bit extra. This elegant seafood main course is truly something.
I always think that It has the same flavour of a luxury fish pie , but without all the fuss of making pastry!
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized!
Essential mise en place is crucial. Get all your ingredients prepped and measured. It saves so much time later. Plus, who wants to be scrambling for garlic while the butter's burning? Not me!
Next, time saving organization tips are key. Chop your onion and garlic ahead of time. It makes cooking so much smoother. Safety first! Always wash your hands before handling seafood.
step-by-step to Seafood Heaven
- First, preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Grease that baking dish!
- Melt 4 tbsp (56g) of butter in a skillet. Sauté 1 small onion , then add 2 cloves garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in ¼ cup (30g) of flour, then gradually add 2 cups (475ml) of milk and ½ cup (120ml) cream. Simmer until thick.
- Stir in ¼ cup (60ml) of seafood bake with sherry , 1 tsp of Dijon, salt, pepper, and cayenne (optional).
- Gently fold in 1 lb (450g) of shrimp, 1 lb (450g) of scallops, 8 oz (225g) of crab, 4 oz (115g) smoked salmon, parsley, and tarragon.
- Pour that seafood casserole into the baking dish.
- Mix 1 cup (100g) Gruyere, ½ cup (50g) Parmesan, ¼ cup (30g) panko, and 2 tbsp melted butter.
- Sprinkle over the top and bake for 35 minutes , until golden and bubbly.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Bake
Don't overcook the shrimp and scallop bake ! Seafood should be opaque. Using high-quality cheese makes a huge difference. I learned that the hard way.
One time, I skimped on the Gruyere and the whole thing just tasted…meh. Toasting the panko adds great crunch. I am sure that it will elevate your cheesy seafood bake .
So there you have it my take on a seafood bake recipe that's guaranteed to impress. Get ready for rave reviews and empty plates! This is one of my fave easy elegant meals.
Recipe Notes for Your Dreamy Seafood Bake
Alright, let's dive into some extra tidbits that'll make your seafood bake a smash hit. This ain't just a recipe.
It's a guide to seafood comfort food nirvana! Honestly, I've made this shrimp and scallop bake so many times, I could probably do it in my sleep.
Serving it Up in Style
Plating and Presentation Ideas: Think fancy, but chill. A spoonful of this creamy seafood gratin looks fab in a shallow bowl.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop. For a rustic feel, serve straight from the baking dish. Less washing up, win-win.
Complementary Sides or Beverages: A crusty baguette is a must. A crisp green salad cuts through the richness. White wine? Oh my gosh, yes.
Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are both amazing choices.
Storage Like a Pro
Refrigeration Guidelines: Leftovers? Lucky you! Store your baked seafood dinner in an airtight container in the fridge. It's good for up to 3 days.
Freezing Options (if applicable): This luxury fish pie freezes alright, but the texture might change a bit. It's best enjoyed fresh, really. If you must freeze, use a freezer safe container.
Reheating Instructions: Gently reheat in the oven at 300° F ( 150° C) until warmed through. Microwave works, but it can make the seafood a bit rubbery.
Tweak it Your Way: Variations
Dietary Adaptations: Want a lighter cheesy seafood bake ? Use low-fat milk and skip the breadcrumbs. gluten-free? Use gluten-free panko.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In summer, add some fresh corn kernels. In autumn, butternut squash could be interesting. Get creative!
Nutrition Lowdown
Simplified Nutrition Information: Each serving is about 550 calories . It packs a protein punch and healthy fats.
Key Health Benefits: Seafood is great for your heart and brain. Plus, it's just so darn delicious.
There you have it! Your seafood bake with sherry is about to become a family favourite. Enjoy the process and don't be afraid to experiment.
You got this! Seriously, go wow your friends and family with this elegant seafood main course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen seafood in this seafood bake recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen seafood is a great way to make this dish accessible any time of year. Just be sure to thaw the seafood completely before cooking, and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Nobody wants a soggy seafood bake, do they?
What's the best way to store leftover seafood bake?
Store any leftover seafood bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, to avoid rubbery seafood.
It won't be quite as good as the first day, but still delicious - think of it as a Boxing Day treat!
I'm not a fan of sherry. What can I substitute in the creamy seafood bake sauce?
Not a problem! If sherry isn't your cuppa, you can easily substitute it with dry white wine or even chicken or fish stock. The sherry adds a nice depth of flavour, but the dish will still be fantastic without it. If you're using stock, perhaps add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bit of zing!
Is there a way to make this seafood bake healthier?
Definitely! To lighten things up, use low-fat milk and cream in the sauce. You could also skip the panko breadcrumbs on top, or use a whole wheat version. Load up on the seafood and perhaps add some extra veggies like asparagus or spinach to boost the nutritional value.
Remember, a little bit of what you fancy does you good though!
Can I prepare the seafood bake ahead of time?
You sure can. Assemble the entire seafood bake up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
This is a lifesaver if you're having a dinner party and want to get ahead less stress is always good!
What other types of seafood can I add to this bake?
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment with different types of seafood. Lobster, mussels, clams, cod, or haddock would all be delicious additions. Just make sure that all the seafood is cooked through properly. Why not try it with whatever's the daily special at your local fishmonger's!
Creamy Dreamy Seafood Bake
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 1g |
