Captain George’s Seafood Casserole Recipe: A Taste of the Coast

Captain George’s Seafood Casserole Recipe

A Taste of the Coast: This beloved seafood casserole is a true coastal classic, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, Captain George’s Seafood Casserole is sure to transport you to the seaside, no matter where you are.

What You’ll Need:

• 240 g / 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fish stock

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
2. Combine flour, melted butter, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan.
3. Bring to a simmer, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
4. Combine seafood, onion, and garlic in a separate saucepan.
5. Add fish stock and cook until seafood is tender.
6. Transfer seafood mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese sauce, and sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Captain George’s Seafood Casserole Recipe Card

This convenient recipe card provides all the key details for Captain George’s Seafood Casserole. Review the essential information below to get started.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: 6-8 servings
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

To prepare this seafood casserole, gather the necessary seafood casserole ingredients, including 240 g / 1 cup of mixed seafood, 120 g / 1/2 cup of grated cheese, and 15 ml / 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Follow the seafood casserole instructions carefully to achieve the best results.

Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 190 °C / 375 °F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

Gather Your Ingredients

Ready to dive into a bowl of Captain George’s Seafood Casserole? Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this recipe to life. Choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to unlocking the full flavor potential of this dish.

• 600 g / 1.3 lbs firm white fish, such as cod, haddock, or halibut, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 300 g / 1 cup peeled and deveined shrimp
• 240 g / 1 cup frozen peas
• 120 g / 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 60 g / 1/4 cup butter
• 50 g / 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1.2 L / 5 cups milk
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 120 g / 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 60 g / 1/4 cup bread crumbs

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for a touch of heat

Assemble and Bake Your Captain George’s Seafood Casserole

Follow these clear and concise instructions to create a mouthwatering seafood casserole that’s sure to impress.

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and ensure you have a 20x30cm (8×12 inch) baking dish ready for assembly. This will help prevent any accidental spills or messes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 240g (1 cup) of cooked pasta, 120g (1 cup) of frozen peas and carrots, and 120g (1 cup) of diced cooked chicken. Toss until the ingredients are well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix 120g (1/2 cup) of mayonnaise, 30g (2 tablespoons) of chopped fresh parsley, and 15g (1 tablespoon) of Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the mayonnaise mixture to the pasta mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Set aside for now.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt 60g (2 tablespoons) of butter over medium heat (150°C/302°F). Add 60g (1/4 cup) of all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
6. Slowly pour in 240ml (1 cup) of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until it thickens.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 120g (1 cup) of grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. In a separate pan, sauté 120g (1 cup) of mixed seafood (such as shrimp, scallops, and mussels) over medium heat (150°C/302°F) until pink and cooked through. Drain excess liquid and set aside.
9. In a greased 20x30cm (8×12 inch) baking dish, arrange half of the pasta mixture in the bottom. Top with half of the cooked seafood, followed by half of the cheese sauce.
10. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining pasta mixture, then the remaining seafood, and finally the remaining cheese sauce.
11. Sprinkle an additional 30g (1/4 cup) of grated cheddar cheese on top of the casserole and cover with aluminum foil.
12. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
13. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set.

Now that you’ve completed the step-by-step instructions, it’s time to indulge in your delicious Captain George’s Seafood Casserole!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole

To create a truly exceptional Captain George’s Seafood Casserole, it’s essential to pay attention to texture and flavor. A delicate balance of creamy sauce, tender seafood, and crunchy topping is key to a dish that will impress.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

• Don’t overcook the seafood – cook until it’s just opaque and flakes easily, about 8-10 minutes at 190°C / 375°F.
• Use a combination of crunchy breadcrumbs and melted cheese for the topping, adding texture and flavor to each bite.

Enhancing the Flavor

Add depth to the casserole by using a mixture of 240 g / 1 cup grated cheddar and 120 g / 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese. This blend will add a rich, savory flavor to the dish.

• Use fresh herbs like parsley and dill to add a bright, freshness to the casserole.
• Avoid over-salting – use about 5 g / 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

By following these pro tips and avoiding common pitfalls like overcooking and over-salting, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Captain George’s Seafood Casserole that’s sure to impress. Remember to always use high-quality ingredients and to not be afraid to experiment and make the recipe your own.

Make it Your Own: Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have a specific ingredient on hand? No problem! Captain George’s Seafood Casserole is wonderfully adaptable. Try these easy substitutions and variations to customize your dish.

Seafood Swap

Feel free to mix and match your favorite seafood. If you can’t find cod, try haddock, pollock, or even halibut. Shrimp, scallops, or crab meat also work beautifully. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different types of seafood.

Creamy Base Tweaks

• For a richer flavor: Use 240 ml / 1 cup heavy cream instead of milk.
• For a lighter option: Substitute 240 ml / 1 cup half-and-half or low-fat milk.

Veggie Boost

Add a medley of chopped vegetables to your casserole for extra nutrition and flavor. Consider diced bell peppers, onions, celery, or even spinach.

Spice it Up!

Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky flavor.

Get Creative with Captain George’s Seafood Casserole: Variations

While the original recipe is a crowd-pleaser, feel free to experiment and make it your own with these tasty variations:

Dragon’s Breath Casserole

Add a spicy kick by incorporating 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce (such as sriracha) and 1/4 cup of diced jalapeños into the seafood mixture. This variation will add 5-7 minutes to the cooking time due to the extra heat.

Italian-Style Seafood Casserole

Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning to give the casserole an Italian twist. This variation will add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

Smoky Seafood Casserole

Add a smoky flavor by incorporating 1/4 cup of diced smoked salmon and 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke into the seafood mixture. This variation will not affect the cooking time.

Low-Carb Seafood Casserole

Replace the traditional pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash to reduce the carb content. This variation will not affect the cooking time, but may require some extra preparation.

Storing Your Leftovers

To maintain the freshness and flavor of Captain George’s Seafood Casserole, proper storage is essential. Cool the casserole to room temperature, then refrigerate it within two hours. Store it in a covered, airtight container at a temperature of 4°C / 39°F or below.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Divide it into portions, place them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and store at -18°C / 0°F or below. When reheating, make sure the casserole reaches a minimum internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F to ensure food safety.

• Refrigerate for up to 3 days
• Freeze for up to 3 months

When reheating, use the oven or microwave. For the oven, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and heat at 180°C / 350°F for 20-25 minutes. In the microwave, cover and heat on medium power for 3-4 minutes, checking and stirring every minute until heated through.

Common Issues and Solutions

Even the most seasoned cooks can encounter a snag or two while preparing Captain George’s Seafood Casserole. But don’t fret! We’ve got your back with this handy guide to troubleshoot common problems and ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Casserole is too watery

This can happen if you’ve over-added liquid or if the seafood releases too much moisture during cooking. To fix it, try simmering the casserole uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time to allow excess liquid to evaporate.

Casserole is too dry

If your casserole seems dry, you may have under-added liquid or the oven temperature was too high. Add a splash of extra broth or white wine to the casserole and reduce the oven temperature slightly for the remaining cooking time.

Seafood is overcooked

Overcooked seafood becomes tough and rubbery. To prevent this, ensure the seafood is added towards the end of the cooking time, just until it’s opaque and cooked through.

Nutritional Information for Captain George’s Seafood Casserole

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content in our Seafood Casserole Recipe.

• Per serving (serves 6-8):
• Calories: 420 kcal (175°C) / 1017 kcal (200°F)
• Macronutrient Breakdown:
• Protein: 35g (from seafood and pasta)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (from pasta, vegetables, and breadcrumbs)
• Fat: 20g (from seafood, pasta, and breadcrumbs)
• Other nutrients:
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total sugars: 5g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Note: This recipe is not suitable for a vegan diet due to the presence of seafood. However, it is gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting dairy products with non-dairy alternatives.

Key Takeaways: Mastering the Art of Seafood Casserole

Captain George’s Seafood Casserole is a symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas. To truly nail this dish, remember these essential tips:

1. Freshness is Key: Start with the highest quality seafood you can find. It makes all the difference in taste and texture.
2. Don’t Overcook: Seafood cooks quickly. Overcooking leads to dryness and a rubbery texture. Aim for just opaque and flaky.
3. Balance the Flavors: The creamy sauce should complement the seafood without overpowering it. Adjust seasonings to taste.
4. Layer for Success: Creating distinct layers of seafood, vegetables, and sauce ensures even cooking and a visually appealing presentation.
5. The Perfect Crust: A golden, crispy crust adds a satisfying crunch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings like breadcrumbs, cheese, or herbs.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Captain George’s Seafood Casserole that’s worthy of a standing ovation.

From the Kitchen of Captain George

As a seasoned sailor and seafood enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the world’s oceans and discovering the freshest catches. But one dish that always brings back fond memories is my beloved Seafood Casserole. This classic recipe has been a staple on my ship, and in my home, for years.

It all began on a voyage to the Caribbean, where I was introduced to the vibrant flavors of the region. The combination of succulent shrimp, mussels, and scallops, all baked in a rich and creamy sauce, was nothing short of magical. From that moment on, I knew I had to share this dish with the world.

• Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to perfection, using only the freshest ingredients and a hint of spice to give it that extra oomph.
• Whether I’m serving it to a crew of hungry sailors or a family gathering, this casserole never fails to impress.
• It’s more than just a meal – it’s a taste of adventure, a reminder of the incredible experiences I’ve had on the high seas.

So, join me on this culinary journey and try Captain George’s Seafood Casserole Recipe for yourself. Your taste buds will thank you!

Set Sail for Flavorful Success

To create Captain George’s Seafood Casserole, start by gathering the necessary ingredients, including 240 g / 1 cup of mixed seafood, 120 g / 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese, and 15 ml / 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Preheat the oven to 190°C / 375°F. This seafood casserole recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the taste of the coast. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for a seafood dinner that’s sure to impress.

• 240 g / 1 cup mixed seafood (such as shrimp, scallops, and fish)
• 120 g / 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 15 ml / 1 tablespoon olive oil

By following this easy seafood casserole recipe, you’ll be able to create a mouth-watering dish that’s full of flavor and sure to become a favorite. So why not set sail for flavorful success and give Captain George’s Seafood Casserole a try?