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Classic Seafood Gratin

This indulgent Classic Seafood Gratin features tender shrimp, scallops, and white fish in a velvety cream sauce, topped with golden cheese and breadcrumb crust. Perfect for special occasions or comforting family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, French-inspired
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz mixed seafood shrimp, scallops, and white fish fillets (400g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream 200ml
  • 1/3 cup milk 100ml
  • 3 tbsp butter 50g
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup grated cheese Gruyère or cheddar (100g)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 50g
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • large skillet
  • whisk
  • measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Pat mixed seafood dry with paper towels and cut white fish into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Whisk in flour for 2 minutes to form a roux, then gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until mixture thickens (3-4 minutes).
  4. Gently fold prepared seafood into the creamy sauce, ensuring it is well-coated. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Transfer seafood and sauce mixture to a baking dish. Mix grated cheese and breadcrumbs together, then evenly spread over the top.
  6. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden brown and bubbling.
  7. Let gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

For best results, use fresh seafood when possible. If using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and patted completely dry. Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth. This dish can be prepared 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking - just add 5-10 minutes to baking time.