Seafood Gratin

The magic of this Seafood Gratin lies in the rich blend of tender shrimp, scallops, and white fish, enveloped in a velvety cream sauce, and topped with a perfectly golden, cheesy crust. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet accessible, making it perfect for both special occasions and weeknight comfort.

This recipe draws inspiration from classic French gratins, but simplifies the process so you can bring restaurant-quality seafood right into your home kitchen. With a crispy topping and a creamy center, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish will make you feel like a gourmet chef with minimal effort.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, squid, or firm white fish)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup dry white wine

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.

3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, then add the heavy cream and white wine, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

5. Add the mixed seafood and cook for 3–4 minutes until just opaque (do not overcook).

6. Pour the seafood and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs.

7. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 360 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Seafood Gratin is the perfect blend of luxurious French culinary technique and cozy, home-style comfort food. With its rich cream sauce, tender pieces of seafood, and bubbling, golden cheese topping, this dish offers a fine dining experience from the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s no wonder that seafood gratin has become a beloved recipe among seafood enthusiasts and comfort food lovers alike. Whether served as a hearty main course or as part of an elegant dinner party menu, this dish never fails to impress.

Origins of Gratin: A French Culinary Staple

The term gratin comes from the French word gratter, which means “to scrape”  a reference to the crispy, golden crust that forms on the top of the dish. Gratins are traditionally prepared in a shallow dish and baked until a beautiful crust develops, usually made with cheese, breadcrumbs, or both. While the classic Potato Gratin (or Gratin Dauphinois) is most widely known, seafood variations have grown in popularity for their incredible flavor and versatility. The creamy base of the gratin and the use of high-quality seafood elevate it to a restaurant-worthy meal that still feels warm and welcoming.

Why Seafood Gratin Stands Out

Seafood Gratin is more than just a baked dish  it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. The softness of the seafood contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and the crunchy top layer. The dish typically uses a combination of shrimp, scallops, squid, and white fish, allowing for a variety of flavors in every bite. Paired with aromatic herbs, a light touch of garlic, and a hint of white wine, this gratin delivers depth without being overly complicated or time-consuming.

One of the most appealing aspects of seafood gratin is how it brings together simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. The combination of creamy béchamel sauce and melted cheese creates a luxurious foundation that enhances the seafood’s natural sweetness and briny freshness. Each forkful is rich and indulgent, with a crisp top layer offering the perfect contrast to the velvety filling underneath.

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners or Entertaining

Although Seafood Gratin sounds like a gourmet indulgence, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. This makes it ideal for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. For busy households, it’s a great make-ahead option simply assemble the dish, refrigerate, and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to eat. It also reheats beautifully, which means leftovers never go to waste.

For special occasions, Seafood Gratin has a way of elevating the meal with minimal effort. The golden, bubbly top and the fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes make it a showstopper. You can serve it in individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party presentation or in a larger casserole for a family-style meal.

A Nutrient-Rich Comfort Food

Unlike many comfort foods that tend to be heavy or overly indulgent, Seafood Gratin brings a nutritious twist to the table. Seafood is naturally rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like selenium, iodine, and zinc. Shrimp, scallops, and white fish are low in fat but packed with nutrients that support brain and heart health.

The creamy sauce can be made with a base of milk and light cream, which reduces heaviness without sacrificing flavor. Using just enough cheese to create a golden crust, the gratin becomes satisfying without being overwhelmingly rich. Paired with a fresh green salad or a serving of steamed vegetables, it becomes a balanced and complete meal.

Customizable to Suit Every Taste

Another reason Seafood Gratin remains a favorite is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the recipe depending on what seafood is available or in season. Not a fan of scallops? Swap them out for more shrimp. Want to add mussels or chunks of salmon? Go for it. The dish works well with frozen seafood too, making it budget-friendly and accessible year-round.

For those who prefer a spicier kick, you can stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cream sauce. You can also experiment with different cheeses  Gruyère, fontina, or cheddar all add a new flavor dimension to the topping.

Vegetable add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or leeks can also be incorporated into the sauce to boost fiber and nutrition. With so much flexibility, Seafood Gratin is a dish that can be tailored to suit everyone’s preferences while still maintaining its luxurious appeal.

Serving Suggestions to Complete the Meal

Seafood Gratin pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A crisp, lightly dressed green salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gratin. Roasted asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach also complement the creamy texture without overwhelming the palate.

If you want to lean into the comfort food angle, a side of crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving the gratin over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

In terms of beverages, white wines like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio pair wonderfully with the creamy, seafood-based flavors of the dish. A chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon is also a lovely non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While Seafood Gratin is fairly straightforward to make, a few simple tips can help you avoid common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the seafood: Since the dish is baked after being assembled, it’s important to only partially cook the seafood on the stovetop to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
• Watery sauce: Make sure your béchamel sauce is thick enough before adding it to the baking dish. This prevents the final result from being runny or soupy.
• Uneven topping: Spread the cheese and breadcrumbs evenly to ensure a uniformly golden crust. This adds both flavor and texture.

Following these tips will help you achieve the perfect consistency and flavor balance every time.

A Dish That Impresses Every Time

Whether you’re hosting guests, cooking a romantic dinner for two, or simply treating yourself to something special, Seafood Gratin always delivers. The combination of rich, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth seafood creates an irresistible meal that feels luxurious without being fussy. Its make-ahead convenience and flexible ingredients make it a standout choice for home cooks who want both ease and elegance in their recipes.

With just a few ingredients and some thoughtful layering, Seafood Gratin transforms everyday components into an unforgettable dish. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a go-to favorite, requested often and remembered long after the last bite is gone.

Conclusion

Seafood Gratin is a shining example of how traditional French cooking can be made approachable and versatile for the everyday home cook. Its comforting, creamy layers and customizable ingredients allow it to fit any occasion from casual weeknight meals to impressive dinner parties. As a high-protein, nutrient-rich comfort food, it satisfies both your cravings and your nutritional needs.

Whether you’re new to seafood dishes or a longtime fan of gratins, this recipe offers the perfect balance of taste, texture, and presentation. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again for the flavor, for the ease, and for the way it always brings people to the table.