If you’re hunting for a crowd-pleaser that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, this Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Imagine tender imitation crab meat and succulent shrimp swirled in a rich, creamy sauce with layers of melted cheese on top—baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a nostalgic dish that captures the spirit of those vibrant buffet tables you love, delivering all the seafood goodness in one irresistible, hearty casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each play a starring role. From creamy dairy that gives it silky texture, to perfectly seasoned seafood that adds ocean-fresh taste, every element contributes to building layers of flavor and that luscious, comforting bite you’ll crave.
- Imitation crab meat: Offers a sweet, flaky seafood base that’s economical and easy to find.
- Small cooked shrimp: Adds tender, juicy, bite-sized morsels of surf in every forkful.
- Cream cheese: Brings rich, creamy body and a slight tang to the sauce, keeping it luscious.
- Mayonnaise: Adds a velvety, smooth texture and a subtle savoriness that melds perfectly.
- Sour cream: Contributes a tangy brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Half mixed in to bind the bake, with the rest on top for golden, melty goodness.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth that complements seafood superbly.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory notes without overwhelming the seafood’s delicate flavor.
- Old Bay seasoning (optional): Brings a classic, slightly spicy kick often associated with seafood dishes.
- Salt and pepper: To season and bring out all the natural flavors.
- Chopped green onions or parsley: For a fresh, colorful garnish that adds a subtle bite at the finish.
How to Make Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Have your crab meat chopped and shrimp peeled and deveined, so they’re ready to mingle with the creamy base.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir by hand or with a mixer until you get a smooth and luscious base. This combination is what makes the bake irresistibly creamy!
Step 3: Season and Blend
Add garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning if you’re using it, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well so every bite bursts with flavor. Stir in three-quarters of your shredded mozzarella, reserving the rest for the crunchy topping.
Step 4: Add Seafood and Transfer
Gently fold in the chopped imitation crab meat and shrimp, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the cheesy mixture. Then transfer this lovely, chunky mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Bake the dish uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and the cheese turns a gorgeous golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set up—this also helps all those flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Finish the bake with a scattering of freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and a touch of refreshing bite. These garnishes brighten the dish and add a lovely contrast to the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This seafood bake pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp side dishes like steamed broccoli, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or garlic butter roasted asparagus. These sides balance the creamy richness and add vibrant texture and flavor contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can also present it alongside crusty bread or garlic toast, allowing guests to scoop up every cheesy, seafood-packed bite. It’s equally perfect as a buffet centerpiece or a comforting family dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover seafood bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to keep the texture just right when reheated.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. After baking and cooling, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, though the oven prevents sogginess and preserves that lovely baked cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab meat?
Absolutely! Using real crab gives the dish a more authentic seafood flavor. Just make sure it’s cooked and picked over to remove shells before folding it in.
Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?
Old Bay adds a classic seafood seasoning with a touch of spice and herbs, but it’s optional. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor or if you don’t have it on hand.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
It would require some substitutions like dairy-free cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cheese alternatives. The texture and flavor will differ, but it’s possible if you choose quality replacements.
How spicy is this dish?
This Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe is generally mild, with warmth coming from the garlic, onion powder, and optional Old Bay seasoning. You can adjust seasoning to your taste for more heat if desired.
What can I serve with this bake to make a complete meal?
Pair it with steamed vegetables, a light salad, and a crusty bread for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that complements the rich seafood bake perfectly.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring the magic of beloved buffet tables right to your home, this Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s creamy, flavorful, and super comforting—plus easy enough to make anytime you want a seafood dish that feels special without fuss. Go ahead, dive in, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this deliciously nostalgic feast!
Print
Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese American
Description
This Delicious Chinese Buffet Seafood Bake is a creamy, cheesy seafood casserole that combines imitation crab, shrimp, and a blend of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Topped with mozzarella and seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and Old Bay seasoning, it offers a rich, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound imitation crab meat, chopped
- ½ pound small cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dairy & Sauces
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese: Add garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well, then stir in ¾ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Incorporate Seafood: Gently fold in the chopped imitation crab and peeled shrimp until evenly combined with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the seafood mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the bake cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Notes
- You can substitute real crab meat for imitation crab meat if preferred.
- If you like a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the creamy mixture.
- Serve with crusty bread or steamed rice to make it a more filling meal.
- This dish reheats well—store leftovers in the refrigerator and warm in the oven or microwave.
- Old Bay seasoning is optional but adds a classic seafood flavor that enhances the bake.
