seafood au gratin recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best seafood au gratin recipe

I’ve always been a big fan of seafood au gratin, and I’m not alone in my family. My kids love it when I make it for dinner, and my husband requests it often. I think what makes this dish so special is the combination of flavors and textures. The crispy top and creamy sauce are a perfect match for the delicate fish and shrimp.

It’s a dish that’s both impressive and easy to make, which is why I love it so much. I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to. It’s a classic for a reason, and I’m excited to share it with you today. Seafood au gratin is a French-inspired dish that originated in the Mediterranean region.

The name ‘au gratin’ literally means ‘with a crust’ in French, which refers to the topping of breadcrumbs and cheese that’s sprinkled on top of the dish before baking. This technique helps to create a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds texture and flavor to the dish. One of the key techniques in making a great seafood au gratin is to use high-quality ingredients. Fresh seafood is essential for getting the best flavor out of this dish.

You want to use a variety of fish and shellfish, such as cod, shrimp, scallops, and mussels, to get a good mix of textures and flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of seafood to find your favorite combination. In addition to using fresh ingredients, another important aspect of making seafood au gratin is to not overcook the seafood. You want it to be cooked just until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

If you overcook it, the fish will become dry and tough, which can ruin the whole dish. I like to serve my seafood au gratin with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. It’s also great as an appetizer or main course for special occasions or holiday gatherings.

Seafood Au Gratin

4.6 from 1836 votes

A rich and creamy seafood au gratin featuring a blend of tender shrimp, firm white fish, and mushrooms in a velvety sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Seafood Mixture

12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 oz firm white fish, cut into chunks
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 cup grated cheddar cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, fish, mushrooms, onion, and garlic.
Set aside.
3In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light brown color.
5Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6Cook the sauce over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
7Stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
8Remove the sauce from the heat and add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
9Add the seafood mixture to the sauce and stir gently to combine.
10Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
11In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil until well combined.
12Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the seafood mixture.
13Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the seafood is cooked through.
14The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the fish should flake easily with a fork.
15Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
16This allows the sauce to settle and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Saucepan
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also use a combination of different seafood, such as scallops or crab meat, for added variety.

Watch Video Of How Seafood Au Gratin Works

This recipe is perfect for any occasion whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want something special for dinner. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheat when needed.

To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Seafood Au Gratin

What type of fish should I use in this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use any type of firm-fleshed white fish such as cod, halibut or tilapia.

Can I substitute other types of seafood for the shrimp?

Yes, you can use other types of seafood such as scallops, mussels or clams in place of the shrimp.

How do I know if my seafood is fresh?

Look for fresh seafood at your local market or grocery store. It should have a pleasant smell and feel firm to the touch.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but assemble the dish just before baking.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains fish and shrimp making it unsuitable for vegetarians.

How do I store leftover seafood au gratin?

Store leftover seafood au gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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