Scallops Shrimp Casserole: The Ultimate Easy Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Scallops Shrimp Casserole

There’s something magical about a dish that combines the ocean’s finest treasures with earthy, comforting flavors. One evening, while hosting friends for dinner, I decided to whip up this Scallops Shrimp Casserole. It was an instant hit! The creamy sauce, tender scallops, and juicy shrimp nestled among golden mushrooms made everyone ask for seconds. What makes this recipe stand out is how it feels both fancy and homey at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this dish has your back.

The Story Behind This Seafood Sensation

This dish reminds me of my first trip to France, where I discovered the art of French casserole cooking. Known as cassolettes, these small, individual baked dishes are a staple in French cuisine. Traditionally, they feature rich ingredients like seafood, cream, and cheese. Back home, I adapted the recipe to suit American tastes by adding cremini mushrooms and swapping fumet de poisson for shrimp stock. Over the years, I’ve served this dish at birthdays, holiday dinners, and even quiet weeknight meals. It’s versatile, elegant, and always leaves a lasting impression.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What’s not to love? The combination of succulent scallops, sweet shrimp, and savory mushrooms creates layers of flavor that dance on your taste buds. Plus, the creamy sauce is pure comfort in a bowl. Best of all, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready to impress. And trust me, your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen!

Perfect Occasions for Scallops Shrimp Casserole

This dish is perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of elegance. Serve it at a romantic dinner for two, a festive holiday gathering, or even a casual weekend brunch. Its rich flavors pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, making it ideal for entertaining. But don’t save it only for special events—it’s also a great way to treat yourself after a long day. Sometimes, we all need a little luxury in our lives.

Ingredients for Scallops Shrimp Casserole

• For the filling:
• 250 g of fresh scallops
• 150 g of peeled shrimp
• 250 g of sliced button mushrooms
• 1 finely chopped shallot
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the sauce:
• 20 cl of thick cream
• 10 cl of fish stock or shrimp broth
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• For garnish:
• 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs or grated cheese (Gruyère or Parmesan)
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Substitution Options

If you can’t find fresh scallops, frozen ones work just fine—just thaw them properly before cooking. For vegetarians, swap the seafood with roasted cauliflower or zucchini. Instead of heavy cream, use coconut milk for a lighter option. If you don’t have fish stock, vegetable broth works well too. Finally, breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers or almond flour for a gluten-free twist.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by cleaning the scallops, shrimp, and mushrooms. Pat them dry with paper towels—this step is crucial because excess moisture can ruin the texture of your dish. Dice the shallot finely and slice the garlic thinly. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Pro tip: Keep the scallops chilled until you’re ready to cook them; cold scallops sear better.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, melt one tablespoon of butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, stirring until fragrant. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until they turn golden brown and release their juices. Remove them from the pan and set aside. The aroma of caramelized mushrooms is enough to get anyone excited about dinner!

Step 3: Cook the Seafood

Melt another tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Place the scallops in the pan, giving them space to breathe. Let them cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Next, add the shrimp, cooking briefly until pink and opaque. Transfer both to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm. Remember, overcooking seafood leads to rubbery textures, so watch closely.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour the fish stock into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Stir in the cream, letting it simmer gently. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a splash of water and whisk it in. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg for warmth. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon—rich, velvety, and utterly irresistible.

Step 5: Assemble the Casseroles

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Divide the mushrooms, shrimp, and scallops evenly among ramekins. Pour the sauce generously over each portion. Sprinkle breadcrumbs or grated cheese on top for a crispy finish. Chef’s tip: For extra crunch, mix the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the ramekins under the broiler for 5–7 minutes, or until the tops are bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. The sight of those bubbling casseroles emerging from the oven is pure joy. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Chef’s Secret

To elevate the dish, toast the breadcrumbs lightly in a dry skillet before using them as a topping. This adds an extra layer of nuttiness and crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Extra Info

Did you know that scallops are often considered a sustainable seafood choice? Look for labels like MSC-certified when buying them. Additionally, pairing this dish with a glass of Chardonnay enhances its creamy notes, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Necessary Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Ramekins or small oven-safe dishes
• Oven and broiler
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve the texture of the seafood. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sauce separate.

For longer storage, freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Never refreeze cooked seafood, as it compromises quality and safety. Always plan ahead to enjoy your dish at its best.

Tips and Advice

• Use high-quality ingredients—their flavors shine through in every bite.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing scallops; give them room to develop a nice crust.
• Taste the sauce before assembling the dish to ensure it’s seasoned correctly.

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a pop of color.
• Serve in rustic ceramic ramekins for a charming, homemade look.
• Pair with a side of garlic bread or wild rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten up this indulgent dish? Here are six variations:

1. Low-Fat Version: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
2. Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, cream, and protein substitutes like tofu or jackfruit.
3. Gluten-Free Twist: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed nuts.
4. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat lovers.
5. Herbaceous Delight: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon into the filling.
6. Protein Boost: Add diced chicken or turkey alongside the seafood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Overcrowding the Pan

When cooking scallops or shrimp, resist the urge to cram everything into one pan. Overcrowding lowers the temperature and steams the seafood instead of searing it. To avoid this, cook in batches if needed. Pro tip: A hot pan ensures a perfect sear every time.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Drying Step

Moisture is the enemy of crispy textures. Always pat scallops and shrimp dry before cooking. Wet surfaces lead to steaming rather than browning, resulting in soggy results. Take the extra minute—it’s worth it!

Mistake 3: Overcooking the Seafood

Seafood cooks quickly, so timing is key. Scallops need only 1–2 minutes per side, while shrimp turn opaque within minutes. Overcooked seafood becomes tough and chewy. Keep an eye on the clock and remove them promptly.

Mistake 4: Neglecting the Sauce

A bland sauce ruins the entire dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly. Don’t shy away from bold flavors like garlic, nutmeg, or fresh herbs—they tie everything together.

Mistake 5: Forgetting to Preheat the Oven

Skipping the preheating step affects the final outcome. Cold ramekins slow down cooking, leading to uneven results. Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature before assembling the casseroles.

FAQs About Scallops Shrimp Casserole

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

What type of mushrooms works best?

Button mushrooms are classic, but cremini or shiitake mushrooms add depth and umami. Feel free to experiment based on your preference.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. Frozen scallops may release more liquid, so drying is essential.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Kids who enjoy seafood will love the mild flavors of this casserole. For picky eaters, try serving it with familiar sides like mashed potatoes or pasta.

How do I know when the sauce is ready?

The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I substitute the fish stock?

Definitely. Chicken or vegetable broth works well if fish stock isn’t available. Just ensure it complements the seafood flavors.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the seafood with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. Use vegetable broth for the sauce.

Why does my sauce split?

Splitting occurs when dairy-based sauces are overheated. To fix, whisk in a splash of cold cream or broth off the heat. Prevention is key—keep the heat low and stir frequently.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with crusty bread, wild rice, or a simple green salad. These sides balance the richness of the casserole beautifully.

This Scallops Shrimp Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and moments shared around the table. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dish promises to deliver joy in every bite. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s create something unforgettable together!