Seafood Croissant Bake (Creamy Shrimp & Crab Bake with Buttery Pastry)
This Seafood Croissant Bake is the ultimate easy seafood casserole recipe—rich, creamy, and packed with tender shrimp and sweet crab meat. Made with flaky croissants (or puff pastry), a homemade béchamel sauce, and melted cheese, this dish delivers the perfect balance of comfort food and coastal elegance.
Perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, brunch, or entertaining, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients (Easy Seafood Bake)
- 2 large croissants (or 1 sheet puff pastry), sliced
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Seafood Croissant Bake
1. Prepare the Creamy Béchamel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux. Slowly add milk while whisking to create a rich, creamy white sauce. Add garlic, Old Bay seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until thick and velvety.
2. Build the Pastry Base
Lightly butter a baking dish. Layer croissant pieces (or puff pastry) on the bottom. Pour a layer of sauce over the pastry, then add shrimp and crab.
3. Layer with Cheese & Seafood
Repeat layers with remaining seafood, pastry, and sauce. Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden, cheesy crust.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes to set.
5. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm for a creamy seafood casserole with crispy edges.
Benefits of This Seafood Bake Recipe
- High-protein meal thanks to shrimp and crab
- Quick & easy dinner ready in under 45 minutes
- Comfort food classic with a gourmet twist
- Family-friendly seafood recipe even picky eaters love
- Great for meal prep or special occasions
- Combines crispy pastry + creamy filling for perfect texture
Expert Tips for the Best Seafood Croissant Bake
- Use fresh or high-quality canned crab meat for best flavor
- Don’t overcook the sauce—keep it creamy and smooth
- Add a pinch of lemon juice for brightness
- Substitute croissants with puff pastry for extra flakiness
- Add spinach or mushrooms for a vegetable boost
- Let the bake rest before serving to avoid a runny texture
Nutrition & Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: ~430 per serving
- Protein: ~26g per serving