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Baked Seafood Au Gratin

60 min 4 servings Medium
Baked seafood au gratin is a luxurious dish that combines the richness of seafood with a creamy, cheesy topping. This version of the classic French-inspired dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking to impress their dinner guests with minimal effort. The combination of shrimp, scallops, and crab meat baked in a velvety white sauce and topped with a golden, cheesy crust offers a delightful texture and a burst of oceanic flavours. Ideal for special occasions or a weekend treat, this dish is both comforting and elegant. Our recipe ensures that the seafood remains juicy and tender while the gratin crust adds a satisfying crunch. It's straightforward enough for a family dinner yet sophisticated enough for entertaining.

Instructions

1

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2

Prepare the Seafood

Pat the shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels. Set aside.

Pro tip: Drying the seafood prevents excess moisture in the dish.

3

Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Whisk constantly to avoid lumps.

4

Add Cheese and Season

Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in the Gruyère cheese and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.

Pro tip: Add cheese slowly, stirring until fully melted.

5

Combine and Assemble

In a baking dish, combine the shrimp, scallops, and crab meat. Pour the cheese sauce over and mix gently.

Pro tip: Ensure seafood is evenly coated with the sauce.

6

Add the Topping

Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the seafood mixture.

Pro tip: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.

7

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Pro tip: Check the top after 15 minutes to prevent burning.

8

Rest and Serve

Remove from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the flavours to meld together.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh seafood for the best flavour.
  • Grate your own cheese for a smoother sauce.
  • Let the dish rest before serving for enhanced flavours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What seafood is best for baked seafood au gratin?

A mix of shrimp, scallops, and crab meat works best for a balanced texture and flavour.

How many calories are in baked seafood au gratin?

This baked seafood au gratin contains approximately 450 calories per serving.

Can I make seafood au gratin in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

What cheese is best for seafood au gratin?

Gruyère cheese is ideal for its creamy texture and nutty flavour.

How long to bake seafood au gratin?

Bake the seafood au gratin for 20-25 minutes at 200°C (400°F).

Serving Suggestions

Serve your baked seafood au gratin with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, and a light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

32g

Protein

23g

Fat

25g

Carbs