Gourmet Seafood Cassolette

Name: Gourmet Seafood Cassolette
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 200g scallops; 200g white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 100g mussels, cleaned; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fish stock; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the ocean with this Gourmet Seafood Cassolette, a delightful dish that brings together an array of fresh seafood in a creamy, savory sauce.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:49:57.556Z

This Gourmet Seafood Cassolette is a perfect blend of fresh seafood, creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping that will impress your guests. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delightful combination of fresh seafood flavors
Rich and creamy sauce that enhances the dish
Perfectly baked topping for a satisfying crunch
Ideal for special occasions or an elegant dinner

      

Dive into Culinary Elegance

Gourmet Seafood Cassolette is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports you to a seaside bistro with each bite. The dish is a harmonious blend of the ocean’s finest offerings, featuring shrimp, scallops, white fish, and mussels, all enveloped in a luxurious creamy sauce. This combination not only celebrates the freshness of the seafood but also highlights the art of cooking, making it a perfect centerpiece for any elegant dinner or special occasion.

The beauty of making a cassolette lies in its versatility. You can customize the seafood mix based on your preference or availability, allowing you to create a unique dish every time. Whether you opt for the classic mix of shrimp and scallops or want to explore with crab or lobster, the creamy sauce and crunchy topping will elevate your culinary creation to gourmet standards.

The Perfect Pairings

When serving your Gourmet Seafood Cassolette, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity and fruitiness of these wines complement the richness of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. A light salad with a vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the creaminess of the cassolette beautifully.

For those looking to add a touch of sophistication, consider serving the cassolette with artisan bread or a selection of gourmet cheeses. This not only enhances the meal but also leaves your guests feeling pampered and satisfied. The key is to create a well-rounded dining experience that highlights the flavors of the seafood while providing variety in textures and tastes.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your seafood is cooked to perfection, pay close attention to the timing. Overcooking can lead to rubbery textures, especially with shrimp and scallops. Sauté them just until they are opaque, as they will continue to cook slightly in the oven. This technique will help maintain the delicate flavors and textures that make seafood so special.

When preparing the cassolette sauce, don’t rush the simmering process. Allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken will create a rich and savory base that enhances the overall dish. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers, which will give a delightful depth without overpowering the seafood.

Ingredients

Seafood Mixture

200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g scallops
200g white fish fillets, cut into chunks
100g mussels, cleaned

Cassolette Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fish stock
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
50g grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Prepare the Seafood

In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the mussels. Cook until they open, then remove from heat and set aside. In a skillet, sauté shrimp, scallops, and fish in a little olive oil until just cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add fish stock, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Combine and Assemble

Add the cooked seafood to the sauce, mixing well. Transfer the mixture into individual cassolette dishes.

Prepare the Topping

In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and paprika. Mix until combined and sprinkle generously over the seafood mixture.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cassolette for about 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden brown.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Why Choose Seafood?

Seafood is not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, seafood can contribute to heart health and provide essential nutrients. Incorporating a variety of seafood into your diet can help you maintain a balanced and nutritious lifestyle, while also satisfying your taste buds with its unique flavors.

In addition to its health benefits, seafood is a sustainable protein option when sourced responsibly. By choosing local and sustainably caught seafood, you are supporting environmentally friendly practices and contributing to the preservation of our oceans. This makes your Gourmet Seafood Cassolette not just a meal, but a conscious choice.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your cassolette properly is key to preserving its flavors. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days, and when you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crunch of the topping.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cassolette before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes, frozen seafood can be used. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before cooking.

→ What can I serve with cassolette?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the seafood and sauce in advance. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Certainly! Substitute the seafood with a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a vegetarian cassolette.