decadent crab and shrimp casserole

Here’s a recipe for a Decadent Crab and Shrimp Casserole:

Ingredients

– 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat; set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine crab meat, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Stir in heavy cream until combined.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
7. Arrange half of the cooked shrimp in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the crab meat mixture.
8. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining shrimp, then the remaining crab meat mixture.
9. Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
11. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

– Calories: 540
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 36g
– Saturated Fat: 20g
– Cholesterol: 150mg
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sugar: 2g
– Sodium: 450mg

Tips and Variations

– Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor.
– Substitute other types of cheese, like Gruyère or fontina, for a different flavor.
– Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
– Use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option.
– Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.