Lightly season shrimp/scallops/fish with salt & pepper. In a pan with a little butter, sauté for 1–2 minutes ONLY — just until they begin to firm. Remove and set aside. (They will finish cooking in the oven.)
2. Make the creamy sauce
In the same pan:
1️⃣ Add 2 tbsp butter + chopped onion → sauté until soft. 2️⃣ Add garlic → cook 30 seconds. 3️⃣ Add flour → stir 1 minute to form a smooth roux. 4️⃣ Slowly whisk in broth until thickened. 5️⃣ Pour in cream + Dijon + spices + wine (if using). 6️⃣ Simmer 2-3 minutes until silky and smooth.
Taste and adjust salt & pepper.
3. Combine
Stir the seafood into the sauce. Gently fold to keep the shrimp and crab intact.
Pour mixture into small ramekins or one casserole dish.
4. Top & Bake
Sprinkle cheese (and breadcrumbs if you want a crunch).
Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 12–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
5. Finish
Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or a squeeze of lemon.
🤤 What It Tastes Like
Rich, creamy, luxurious sauce
Sweet, tender seafood
Golden, cheesy crust
Deep French flavor with a hint of wine
Perfect with bread, rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes
