Dive into the rich, indulgent flavors of this Cajun Seafood Au Gratin, a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that brings the taste of the Gulf Coast to your table. This comforting casserole combines succulent shrimp, sweet lump crab meat, and bold Cajun seasoning in a velvety cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce. Topped with a golden breadcrumb crust infused with fresh parsley and a hint of olive oil, this dish bakes to bubbling perfection in just 30 minutes. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, serve this decadent seafood au gratin with crusty bread or over rice for a meal that's both elegant and satisfying. From its smoky paprika kick to its luxurious texture, this recipe is a true seafood lover's delight!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Gently fold the cooked shrimp and lump crab meat into the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the seafood mixture in the baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty and delicious meal.
Calories |
4321 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 282.1 g | 362% | |
| Saturated Fat | 154.3 g | 772% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1876 mg | 625% | |
| Sodium | 10790 mg | 469% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 139.5 g | 51% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.6 g | 27% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.8 g | ||
| Protein | 311.9 g | 624% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.8 mcg | 34% | |
| Calcium | 3677 mg | 283% | |
| Iron | 15.0 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 3946 mg | 84% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.