Creamy Crab & Shrimp Au Gratin – A Rich and Elegant Seafood Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Crab & Shrimp Au Gratin is a luxurious yet comforting seafood dish that feels right at home on both special-occasion tables and cozy family dinners. Tender shrimp and sweet crab meat are enveloped in a velvety cream sauce, topped with cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden. The result is a dish that is rich, satisfying, and full of delicate seafood flavor without being overly heavy.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its balance of elegance and simplicity. Despite its impressive presentation, the preparation is straightforward and approachable. When I tested this dish, I served it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, and it quickly became the highlight of the meal. The combination of crab and shrimp creates layers of flavor and texture that feel indulgent yet refined. This au gratin is perfect for entertaining, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting seafood dish that delivers both flavor and visual appeal.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp provide a tender, juicy bite and mild sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Medium shrimp work best for even cooking.

Crab meat adds delicate sweetness and a soft texture. Lump or claw crab meat both work well in this dish.

Butter forms the base of the sauce, adding richness and depth.

All-purpose flour helps thicken the cream sauce, giving it a smooth, spoonable consistency.

Milk creates the creamy foundation of the sauce while keeping it balanced and not overly heavy.

Heavy cream enhances richness and gives the dish its signature indulgent texture.

Garlic adds aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce.

Onion or shallot provides subtle sweetness and rounds out the savory flavors.

Gruyère cheese melts smoothly and adds nutty depth to the gratin topping.

Parmesan cheese brings sharpness and helps create a golden, crisp finish.

Salt and black pepper season the dish and enhance the natural seafood flavors.

Paprika adds gentle warmth and color without overpowering the seafood.

Fresh parsley is optional but adds brightness and a fresh finish before serving.

Directions

Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly greasing a baking dish.

If the shrimp are raw, peel and devein them, then pat dry. Cut larger shrimp into bite-sized pieces. Gently check the crab meat for shells and set aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onion or shallot until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about one minute to form a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and stir in half of the Gruyère cheese until melted.

Gently fold the shrimp and crab into the sauce. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining Gruyère and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the top is golden and bubbling. Allow the dish to rest briefly before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 25 to 30 minutes, making the total time roughly 50 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Creamy Crab & Shrimp Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven covered with foil until heated through. Avoid overheating, as seafood can become tough.

Variations and Customizations

This au gratin recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit different preferences. You can substitute scallops for part of the shrimp or add a small amount of lobster for an extra-special version.

For added texture, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking to create a crisp topping. You can also incorporate a splash of white wine into the sauce for added depth.

When I tested a version with a hint of Dijon mustard stirred into the sauce, it added subtle sharpness that complemented the seafood beautifully. These variations allow you to customize the dish while preserving its rich, comforting character.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Creamy Crab & Shrimp Au Gratin is a rich seafood dish that provides protein from shrimp and crab along with fats from dairy. Portion size and ingredient choices can help tailor it to specific dietary needs.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do Not Overcook Seafood
Bake just until the shrimp turn opaque to keep them tender.

Smooth Sauce
Whisk continuously when adding milk to avoid lumps.

Use Quality Crab
Fresh or good-quality canned crab improves flavor significantly.

Rest Before Serving
Letting the dish rest helps the sauce set slightly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before using.

What type of crab meat works best?

Lump or claw crab meat both work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

Is this dish very rich?

It is creamy but balanced by seafood and seasoning.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach or mushrooms work well.

What cheese substitutes work?

Swiss or fontina can replace Gruyère.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour alternative for the sauce.

How do I know when it is done?

The top should be golden and the sauce bubbling.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce.

What should I serve with it?

Crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad pair well.

Conclusion

Creamy Crab & Shrimp Au Gratin is an elegant yet comforting seafood dish that delivers rich flavor, tender texture, and impressive presentation. With its creamy sauce, golden cheese topping, and versatile preparation, it is an excellent choice for entertaining, holidays, or whenever you want to enjoy a special seafood meal at home.

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