Decadent Scallop Cheese Casserole
Indulge in the richness of our Decadent Scallop Cheese Casserole, a delightful dish that combines tender, fresh scallops with a crispy, buttery Ritz cracker topping and a melty cheese blanketing. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this casserole offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a gourmet touch that elevates your main course. Enjoy an exquisite seafood experience that's as quick as it is satisfying!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
large scallops
1.5 lbs (rinsed and drained)
low-fat Ritz crackers
8 oz (crushed)
butter
1/2 cup (melted)
low-fat cheese
8 oz (shredded (Italian blend recommended))
fresh parsley
to taste (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, ensuring the crackers are evenly coated.
3
In a large, round casserole dish, place the rinsed scallops in a single layer, evenly distributing them.
4
Sprinkle the shredded low-fat cheese generously over the scallops, creating a nice cheesy layer.
5
Evenly distribute the buttery Ritz cracker mixture over the cheese layer, ensuring ample coverage for a crispy topping.
6
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
7
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
8
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Scallop Cheese Casserole?
It is a rich seafood dish that combines tender scallops with a crispy Ritz cracker topping and melted cheese.
What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of large scallops that have been rinsed and drained.
What makes the topping for the scallop casserole?
The topping is made from 8 oz of crushed low-fat Ritz crackers mixed with 1/2 cup of melted butter.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking the casserole.
Which cheese works best for this dish?
The recipe recommends 8 oz of shredded low-fat cheese, specifically an Italian blend.
How do I prepare the Ritz cracker mixture?
Combine the crushed crackers with melted butter in a mixing bowl until they are evenly coated.
How should I arrange the scallops in the dish?
Place the scallops in a single layer in a large, round casserole dish for even cooking.
How do I layer the ingredients in the casserole?
Layer the scallops first, then sprinkle the shredded cheese, and finally top with the buttery cracker mixture.
Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?
Yes, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of baking.
How long does the casserole bake uncovered?
After the initial 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
What is the total baking time for this recipe?
The total baking time is 30 minutes.
How do I know when the scallop casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbling and the cracker topping has turned a golden brown color.
What garnish is suggested for this dish?
Garnish the finished casserole with chopped fresh parsley for a gourmet touch.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick recipe and an easy dinner option.
How much butter is required?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of melted butter.
Can I use regular Ritz crackers instead of low-fat?
Yes, while the recipe specifies low-fat, regular Ritz crackers will work as well.
What kind of dish should I use?
A large, round casserole dish is recommended for this recipe.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, it is categorized under comfort food and family meals.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 5 main ingredients: scallops, Ritz crackers, butter, cheese, and fresh parsley.
Should I let the casserole cool before serving?
Yes, let the dish cool slightly after removing it from the oven before serving.
What is the primary protein in this casserole?
The primary protein is 1.5 lbs of large scallops.
Can I use a different cheese blend?
While an Italian blend is recommended, you can use other shredded cheeses that melt well.
How do I ensure the topping is crispy?
Ensure the crackers are well-coated in butter and bake uncovered for the final 15 minutes.
Is this recipe appropriate for elegant gatherings?
Yes, the description notes it is perfect for both cozy family dinners and elegant gatherings.
What texture can I expect from the scallops?
When cooked correctly at 400°F, the scallops should be tender and fresh.
Do I need to pre-cook the scallops?
No, the scallops are placed raw into the dish and cooked thoroughly during the 30-minute baking process.
How do I prepare the parsley?
The parsley should be fresh and chopped before being used as a garnish.
Does this recipe use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, it specifically lists low-fat Ritz crackers and low-fat cheese.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Is this a seafood-themed recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as seafood and features scallops as the star ingredient.