Growing up on the sun-kissed island of Crete, the sea was always part of my life. I remember my grandmother telling me stories while we walked along the shore, collecting fresh fish for the evening meal. One chilly evening, she made a creamy seafood casserole that melted in your mouth, topped with buttery, golden Ritz crackers. That memory stayed with me, inspiring me to recreate it for my own family. Today, I want to share my version of Baked Seafood Casserole with Ritz Topping, a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and has just the right crunch on top. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia.
Seafood casseroles can sometimes feel intimidating, but trust me they’re easier than they look. The secret? A simple, velvety sauce and a buttery Ritz topping that bakes to perfection. The combination of shrimp, crab, and white fish creates a medley of flavors that’s fresh yet indulgent. I like to sprinkle a little extra parmesan over the Ritz crumbs for a golden crust that makes everyone ask for seconds. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy dinner when you want something special but fuss-free.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy, golden seafood casserole:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb white fish fillets (cod or tilapia), cut into chunks
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat
- 2 cups cooked rice (optional for extra heartiness)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
For the Ritz Topping:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (~1 1/2 cups)
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Pinch of paprika (optional for color)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Seafood Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a medium skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until the sauce thickens.
- Add shredded cheddar, parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
- Gently fold in the fish chunks, shrimp, crab meat, and cooked rice (if using). Add parsley and combine evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Making the Ritz Topping
- In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, parmesan, and paprika. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the seafood mixture.
Baking
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. 🥗
- A side of garlic bread or steamed asparagus pairs beautifully. 🍞
- Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, fresh flavor. 🍋
Recipe Card 📋
⏱ Time Cook: 40 minutes (10 min prep + 30 min bake)
🧺 Ingredients: See full ingredient list above
🍳 Instructions: Follow the step-by-step directions for perfect results
📝 Notes:
- You can swap crab for scallops or lobster for a luxurious twist.
- Make ahead: Assemble without topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; bake before serving.
- For extra crunch, broil the topping for 1–2 minutes at the end.
🥗 Nutrition (per serving, approx.): - Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 25g
Why This Recipe Works
This Baked Seafood Casserole with Ritz Topping is comfort food elevated. The creamy sauce envelops each bite of seafood while the buttery, crispy topping adds texture and flavor. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Plus, the combination of cheddar, parmesan, and Ritz crackers makes it irresistibly golden and crunchy, keeping everyone coming back for seconds.
I love making this dish when I have guests because it’s forgiving no perfect measurements needed, just love and fresh ingredients. Every bite feels like a hug from the sea and a nod to my grandmother’s timeless Crete-inspired cooking.
Short 100-Word Recipe Version
Bring the taste of Crete to your kitchen with this Baked Seafood Casserole with Ritz Topping. A creamy blend of white fish, shrimp, and crab is smothered in a cheesy sauce, then topped with golden, buttery Ritz crumbs. Quick to assemble and perfect for any occasion, this casserole bakes in just 30 minutes. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a full meal. It’s indulgent yet simple, with flavors that make every bite memorable. Even novice cooks can create this cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like home.