Elevate your seafood experience with Cajun-Spiced Lobster Shrimp Scallop Bake, a flavorful twist on the classic seafood bake.
Infused with bold Cajun spices and complemented by a rich butter sauce, this dish combines succulent lobster, juicy shrimp, and tender scallops into a spicy, irresistible bake.
Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat, this recipe delivers an exciting burst of flavors with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Cajun-Spiced Seafood Bake
- Bold and Flavorful: Cajun seasoning adds a dynamic kick, turning a traditional seafood bake into a spicy adventure.
- Effortless Gourmet: Despite its sophisticated taste, this dish is straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant, spiced topping and rich sauce make for a visually appealing and delicious meal.
Key Ingredients
For the Seafood
- 1 lb Lobster Tails: Cut into bite-sized pieces, these offer a sweet contrast to the spicy seasoning.
- 1 lb Large Shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and tails removed, they provide a juicy texture.
- 1 lb Scallops: Fresh or frozen, cleaned, and patted dry, adding a delicate flavor.
The Cajun Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter: Essential for a creamy, flavorful base.
- 4 Cloves Garlic: Minced; gives the sauce a robust, aromatic foundation.
- Juice of 1 Lemon: Brightens and balances the rich flavors.
- 1/4 cup White Wine (Optional): Adds depth and helps create a luscious sauce.
- 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning: Adds a spicy, smoky flavor with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Enhances the heat if desired.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley: Chopped; adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Enhances the flavors of the seafood and sauce.
For the Topping
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy, golden topping.
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Ensures the topping becomes crispy and golden.
Cajun-Spiced Lobster Shrimp: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Arrange the Seafood: Spread the lobster, shrimp, and scallops evenly in the baking dish.
2. Make the Cajun Butter Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, white wine (if using), Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour Over Seafood: Drizzle the Cajun butter sauce evenly over the seafood, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
3. Prepare the Topping
- Mix Breadcrumbs and Cheese: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle Over the Seafood: Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the seafood, ensuring it covers the dish.
4. Bake and Serve
- Bake in the Oven: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the seafood is opaque and the topping is golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): For a crispy finish, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Cajun-Spiced Lobster Shrimp
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh lobster, shrimp, and scallops enhance the flavor, but frozen seafood can be used if thawed and dried properly.
- Creamy Variation: For a richer sauce, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the butter mixture.
Cajun-Spiced Lobster Shrimp Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 |
| Protein | 44g |
| Fat | 31g |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
| Calcium | 18% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the seafood and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
2. What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can use Creole seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes, gluten-free panko breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute to accommodate dietary restrictions.
4. How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the texture.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms would complement the seafood well. Just add them to the baking dish with the seafood.
Cajun-Spiced Lobster Shrimp: Variations to Try
- Lemon-Dill Cajun Bake: Add fresh dill and extra lemon zest for a citrusy twist on the classic Cajun flavor.
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Bake: Increase the garlic and Parmesan for a bold, cheesy variation with a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Cajun Bake: Incorporate olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
Cajun-Spiced Lobster Shrimp: Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to complement the spicy seafood.
- Starch: Enjoy with a side of wild rice or quinoa to balance the heat.
- Wine: Pair with a dry Riesling or a chilled Sauvignon Blanc to contrast the spiciness.
Final Thoughts
Cajun-Spiced Lobster Shrimp Scallop Bake is a thrilling twist on the classic seafood bake, bringing bold Cajun flavors to the forefront. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice and want a meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. With its flavorful sauce and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite for special occasions and everyday dining alike.
Embrace the heat and indulge in this delectable seafood bake, and elevate your next meal with a touch of Cajun flair!