Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping: A Flavorful and Comforting Dish

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When you’re in the mood for a dish that combines the richness of seafood with a savory, crispy topping, this Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping is exactly what you need. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special family gathering, this dish offers an irresistible balance of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation.

Imagine sinking your fork into tender scallops, juicy shrimp, and flaky cod, all enveloped in a creamy sauce, with each bite complemented by the satisfying crunch of a buttery Ritz cracker topping. The beauty of this casserole lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. The combination of fresh seafood, mushrooms, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream creates a dish that’s luxurious without being overly complicated. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences or occasions.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about creating the perfect Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping, from choosing the right ingredients to perfecting the cooking techniques. You’ll also find helpful tips to make this recipe even more delicious, along with answers to some frequently asked questions to guide you through the process.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping

Perfect Balance of Flavors

When it comes to seafood, you want each bite to be a burst of fresh, oceanic goodness. In this casserole, the sea scallops, jumbo shrimp, and cod create a harmonious blend that’s light yet satisfying. The creamy sauce, made from heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dry sherry, perfectly complements the seafood, enhancing their natural flavors. It’s not overly rich but delivers enough creaminess to bind everything together.

The crispy Ritz cracker topping is the perfect finishing touch. It adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender seafood and the velvety sauce. As the casserole bakes, the cracker crumbs soak up some of the sauce, becoming slightly tender while still maintaining their crunch, giving you the best of both worlds.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

This dish might seem fancy, but it’s made with straightforward ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Ritz crackers provide the base for the crispy topping, while shallots, garlic, and mushrooms offer a depth of flavor to the sauce. The use of dry sherry adds a touch of elegance and complexity without being overwhelming.

What really makes this casserole stand out, however, is the combination of fresh seafood. Whether you’re using sea scallops, jumbo shrimp, or cod, each of these ingredients brings something unique to the table. The seafood is the star of the show, and it shines through in every bite.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the great things about this seafood casserole is its versatility. If you’re not a fan of one type of seafood, feel free to swap it out for something else. For example, you can replace the cod with halibut or tilapia, or use crab meat or lobster for an even more indulgent version. If you prefer a different mushroom variety, you could use button mushrooms instead of cremini.

Not only does this recipe cater to various tastes, but it’s also great for accommodating dietary restrictions. You can easily make it gluten-free by swapping out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the richness without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients for the Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredient	Amount
Unsalted Butter	3½ tablespoons, divided
Sea Scallops	12
Jumbo Shrimp	1 pound, peeled & deveined
Olive Oil	1 tablespoon
Cod Fillet	¾ pound, cut into 2-inch pieces
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper	To taste
Shallot	1 large, minced
Garlic	3 cloves, minced
Cremini Mushrooms	4 ounces, sliced
All-Purpose Flour	1 tablespoon
Dry Sherry	¼ cup
Dijon Mustard	1 tablespoon
Heavy Cream	½ cup
Fresh Parsley	3 tablespoons, minced
Ritz Crackers	8, crushed into crumbs

Key Notes:

• Fresh seafood is essential for the best flavor. Opt for wild-caught scallops and shrimp for a more sustainable option.
• If you’re making the recipe gluten-free, simply replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers.
• Heavy cream is used to create a rich, velvety sauce, but you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping

Preparing the Seafood Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with ½ tablespoon of butter.
2. Arrange the scallops and shrimp in an even layer across the bottom of the dish. Ensure the seafood is spread out evenly for a consistent cook.

Searing the Cod

1. In a nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Wait until the butter is hot and bubbling.
2. Add the cod pieces to the skillet, searing them for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Once the cod is seared, transfer it to the baking dish, placing it among the scallops and shrimp. Season everything with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Making the Mushroom Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Next, stir in the sliced cremini mushrooms and 1 tablespoon of butter. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms become tender and release their moisture.
4. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. This helps to thicken the sauce.
5. Gradually pour in the dry sherry, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens.
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting as you go. The sauce should be creamy and slightly tangy from the mustard.

Adding the Cracker Topping

1. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl and mix it with the crushed Ritz crackers.
2. Sprinkle this cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The buttery crackers will add the perfect crispy crunch.

Baking the Casserole

1. Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature of the cod reaches 145°F (63°C).
2. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
3. For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle fresh parsley over the casserole before serving.

Tips for Perfecting Your Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping

• Don’t overcook the seafood: Since seafood cooks quickly, be careful not to overbake the casserole. The seafood should be just cooked through when the casserole is ready.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the finished dish, making it visually appealing as well as flavorful.
• Customize the topping: For a more indulgent topping, mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the cracker crumbs for a cheesy, golden crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Seafood for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Frozen seafood can release excess moisture, which may affect the texture of the casserole. Pat it dry before adding it to the dish.

How Can I Make the Seafood Casserole Gluten-Free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers and ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives.

Can I Prepare the Seafood Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it into the oven, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.

What Should I Serve with Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping?

This seafood casserole pairs wonderfully with a light green salad, some garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole.

Conclusion: Enjoy a Luxurious, Easy Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping

This Seafood Casserole with a Crispy Cracker Topping is the perfect dish for anyone craving the comfort of a casserole, but with a seafood twist. The combination of fresh seafood, creamy sauce, and crispy topping makes this casserole a showstopper at any dinner table. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and absolutely delicious.

So, why not give this recipe a try the next time you want to impress your friends and family? We’re sure they’ll love it. And don’t forget to share your experience with us—leave a comment below or tag us in your photos!

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