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
Scale
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.
