A flavorful and hearty casserole featuring flaky salmon, succulent shrimp, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- Seafood:
- 1 pound salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package of frozen peas.
- Sauce:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1 cup chicken or seafood broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, panko or regular.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter.
- Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Cajun Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the frozen peas.
- Add Seafood:
- Gently stir in the cubed salmon and shrimp into the sauce. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the salmon is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the seafood.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the seafood and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl mix the breadcrumbs and the melted butter.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the casserole is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
- Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier casserole, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.
- You can add other vegetables like corn, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes.
- Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
- For a richer flavor, heavy cream can replace some or all of the milk.
- If you do not have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or potato chips can be used.
- Make sure to not overcook the seafood, or it will be rubbery.
Enjoy your delicious Cajun Salmon and Shrimp Casserole!