crab and shrimp au gratin main dish

Steps

1. ### Crab and Shrimp Au Gratin Recipe: A Flavorful Main Dish
3. #### Ingredients:
4. - 1 pound lump crab meat
5. - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
6. - 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
7. - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
8. - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
9. - 1 1/2 cups whole milk
10. - Salt and pepper to taste
11. - 1 tablespoon paprika (optional)
12. - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
14. #### Cooking Equipment:
15. - Medium saucepan
16. - Baking dish
17. - Whisk
19. ### Step-by-Step Guide:
21. #### Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
22. Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse and pat dry the shrimp with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
24. #### Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
25. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are just cooked through (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove from heat and set aside on a plate.
27. #### Step 3: Combine Crab Meat and Shrimp
28. Mix the cooked shrimp with the lump crab meat in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Stir until well combined.
30. #### Step 4: Make the Bechamel Sauce
31. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle flour into the melted butter and whisk to combine thoroughly. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, then gradually stir in milk while continuing to whisk continuously until the mixture thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
33. #### Step 5: Mix Cheeses
34. Stir shredded Colby-Jack cheese into the bechamel sauce until fully melted and smooth.
36. #### Step 6: Assemble the Dish
37. Transfer the crab and shrimp mixture to a baking dish. Pour the cheese-bechamel sauce over the mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
39. #### Step 7: Bake
40. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking until golden brown on top (about 10-15 more minutes).
42. #### Step 8: Garnish and Serve
43. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
45. ### SEO-Friendly Keywords:
46. - Crab and shrimp au gratin recipe
47. - Main dish seafood
48. - Creamy bechamel sauce
49. - Colby-Jack cheese
50. - Baking tips
52. ### Tips for Success:
53. - Ensure the crab meat is lump quality, which means it's firmer and more flavorful.
54. - Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
55. - Adjust seasoning to personal preference as some people might like a bit of heat from paprika.
57. Enjoy your delicious Crab and Shrimp Au Gratin main dish!

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