30-Minute Cheesy Seafood Gratin: Easy & Delicious!

30-Minute Cheesy Seafood Gratin: Easy & Delicious! 🧀🦞✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a rich, cheesy seafood dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, then this Cheesy Seafood Gratin recipe is perfect for you. This easy seafood gratin combines the decadence of melted cheese with the fresh, succulent flavors of seafood, making it an ideal dinner for both weeknights and special occasions. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking for a comforting dish, this gratin is guaranteed to impress.

2. Ingredients for Cheesy Seafood Gratin

• 1 lb (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, crab meat)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Make Cheesy Seafood Gratin

Preparing the Seafood

Start by cleaning and patting dry your seafood. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant. Toss in the seafood and cook for about 3-4 minutes until just opaque. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.

Making the Creamy Base

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously until it starts to simmer. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and cheesy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Assembling the Gratin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, combine the cooked seafood mixture with the cheesy sauce. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy crust. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for color and freshness.

Baking to Perfection

Bake the gratin in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Cheesy Seafood Gratin

To keep your easy seafood gratin fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. For best results, avoid freezing, as the creamy texture may change upon thawing.

5. Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Seafood Gratin

This cheesy seafood gratin pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside some crusty bread or garlic bread. Check out this simple summery bruschetta pasta salad for a perfect complementary side dish.

6. FAQs About Cheesy Seafood Gratin

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyère or cheddar work beautifully, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, just replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them altogether for a lower-carb version.

How long does it take to prepare?

This 30-minute seafood gratin recipe is designed to be quick, with most of the prep and cooking completed in approximately half an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Upgrade your prep game with this versatile vegetable and seafood chopper that speeds up chopping and slicing.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup, essential for making creamy sauces and baking this gratin.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1: Perfect for crispy breadcrumb topping or reheating leftovers with that same crispy texture.

8. Related Recipes & Internal Links

• One-Pan Southwest Ground Beef Skillet
• Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Bowls
• Easy Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry

9. Conclusion

This cheesy seafood gratin is your new go-to dish for a quick, satisfying, and elegant dinner. With its creamy texture, flavorful seafood, and cheesy crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite seafood or cheese options. Give this dinner recipe a try tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in just 30 minutes!

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