Delicious Seafood Gratin Recipe
Seafood gratin is a creamy baked dish filled with tender seafood and topped with a golden cheesy crust. It is rich, comforting, and perfect for both family dinners and special gatherings. The combination of textures makes it a truly satisfying recipe.
This dish brings out the natural sweetness of seafood while balancing it with a creamy sauce. The crispy topping adds the perfect finishing touch. It is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy seafood at home.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp peeled | 1 cup | 200 |
| Crab meat | 1 cup | 120 |
| Scallops | 1 cup | 220 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Parmesan cheese grated | ½ cup | 210 |
| Mozzarella cheese | ½ cup | 170 |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | 200 |
| Garlic minced | 3 cloves | 13 |
| Bread crumbs | ½ cup | 180 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 5 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the seafood
Rinse and pat dry shrimp, crab, and scallops. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside while you make the sauce.
Make the creamy sauce
Melt butter in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cream and simmer until slightly thickened. Stir gently for a smooth texture.
Add the seafood
Mix the shrimp, crab, and scallops into the sauce. Cook for a few minutes until seafood is just tender. Do not overcook to keep it juicy.
Assemble the gratin
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan, mozzarella, and bread crumbs on top. The topping creates a golden crust.
Bake the gratin
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20 minutes. The top should be bubbling and golden brown. Remove and let it cool slightly.
Serve hot
Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright finish. Serve warm as a main dish or with bread on the side. The cheesy crust pairs beautifully with seafood.
Tips for customizing the recipe
Use salmon or white fish chunks instead of crab for variety. Add spinach or mushrooms for extra depth.
For a lighter version use half cream and half milk. A touch of white wine in the sauce adds elegance.
Nutritional Information
One serving has about 420 calories with 30 grams of protein, 25 grams of fat, and 10 grams of carbs. It is hearty and filling.
Seafood adds lean protein and minerals while cheese and cream give richness. Adjust ingredients to meet your dietary needs.
Serving Suggestion
Serve seafood gratin with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A green salad on the side balances the richness.
It also pairs well with rice or pasta. The creamy sauce complements mild side dishes perfectly.
How to store and keep fresh
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Freezing is possible but may change the creaminess. For best results enjoy fresh.
Conclusion
Seafood gratin is a luxurious dish that combines creamy sauce with tender seafood. The golden topping makes it irresistible and visually appealing. It is a perfect centerpiece for dinner.
With simple steps you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. It is versatile and can be customized to your liking. Once tried it will become a favorite seafood recipe.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use frozen seafood for gratin?
Yes just thaw and drain it well before cooking. This prevents excess water in the dish.
Q2. What cheese works best for seafood gratin?
Parmesan and mozzarella give the perfect balance of flavor and melt. Gruyere also works beautifully for richness.
Q3. Can I prepare seafood gratin ahead of time?
Yes assemble it and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve for best texture.
