Cheesy Seafood – A Cozy Christmas Dinner Delight

Nothing says “holiday comfort” like this cheesy seafood bake. It’s creamy, rich, and loaded with tender monkfish, flaky cod, and juicy shrimp wrapped in a velvety cheddar sauce. The aroma alone feels like a warm Christmas hug. This dish serves six and comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for festive gatherings. It’s indulgent yet simple enough for weeknight cooking too. With its golden crust and bubbling cheese, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or soft brown bread. Whether you’re hosting a family feast or just craving something comforting, this cheesy seafood recipe promises cozy satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Seafood Bake

This cheesy seafood dish feels like pure comfort in a casserole. You’ll love how the milk is gently infused with onion, bay leaves, and parsley, creating a subtly aromatic base. Then it all gets layered with creamy cheddar, tender fish, and sweet shrimp. It’s elegant but easy, a true showstopper for your Christmas table. Plus, the recipe fits right into your holiday lineup — rich, hearty, and wonderfully festive. Whether served beside creamy scalloped potatoes for Christmas dinner or paired with roasted veggies, it’s a warm and impressive meal that everyone will remember.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this cheesy seafood bake:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 medium onion, peeled and quartered
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 parsley stalks
• 1 lb monkfish fillets (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• ½ lb cod fillet (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 4 oz cooked, peeled shrimp
• 3 oz butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 6 oz white cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced (pale parts only)
• 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
• Salt and pepper

Substitutions: Halibut can replace monkfish, and mozzarella can stand in for cheddar, though it’ll change the texture. Add crab or lobster for a fancier twist. You can even stir in a bit of cream cheese for tang. Total prep time is about 25 minutes, and cook time is 35–40 minutes. Serve with brown bread, mashed potatoes, or rice.

How to Make Cheesy Seafood

Step 1 – Infuse the Milk for Flavor

Start by gently heating milk with onion, bay leaves, and parsley until just boiling. Remove it from heat and let it steep as it cools. This infuses the milk with a fragrant, savory depth that sets up the sauce perfectly. Once cool, strain and discard the solids. If you love bold flavor, toss in a clove of garlic before heating. The result is a delicately seasoned base that smells amazing.

Step 2 – Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Next, melt butter in a skillet and stir in the flour to make a smooth roux. Cook for 2–3 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Then, gradually whisk in the strained milk, stirring until silky and thickened. Add lemon juice and two-thirds of the cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still feel light. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of milk to loosen it.

Step 3 – Add the Seafood and Veggies

Now, stir in the monkfish first and cook it briefly — about a minute — before adding cod. Then toss in mushrooms and green onions, mixing everything until well-coated in sauce. The goal is even distribution so every scoop feels indulgent. The fish will finish cooking in the oven, keeping it juicy and tender.

Step 4 – Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer everything into a buttered baking dish and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Then, scatter shrimp on top and sprinkle the remaining cheese. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes, or until the surface is golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are sizzling and the top looks irresistibly crisp. Serve it hot, right out of the oven, while the cheese is still gooey.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Seafood Casserole

To keep the sauce smooth, avoid boiling it once the cheese is added. For a richer taste, mix in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese. Add garlic to the milk for extra flavor depth. Shrimp should always go in last to prevent rubbery texture. If you prefer a thicker sauce, use firmer fish like cod or halibut. For that perfect golden top, let it bake uncovered. The lack of breadcrumbs keeps the dish purely cheesy and indulgent. Pair it with cheesy Christmas tree bread or cheesy root vegetable gratin for Thanksgiving for a full festive spread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, warm gently in the oven or on the stove over low heat. Avoid the microwave as it can split the sauce. Freezing isn’t ideal since the cheese can turn grainy. Leftovers taste great stirred into pasta or spooned over rice for a quick, cozy meal the next day. It’s comfort food that keeps on giving.

Related Recipes to Try

• Christmas stuffed pasta recipe
• chicken casserole Christmas dinner recipe
• cheese potato smoked sausage casserole

Conclusion – A Festive Seafood Favorite

This cheesy seafood casserole brings creamy comfort and ocean-fresh flavor to your Christmas table. It’s rich, bubbly, and guaranteed to make everyone smile. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and a crisp white wine for the ultimate cozy feast. For more festive ideas, visit my Pinterest page at Cozy Recipes by Clara and share your version online — I can’t wait to see your delicious holiday creations.

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