As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious that everyone will love. That’s where my Seafood Nacho Skillet comes in! This gooey, golden dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration in a pan. Perfect for game-day parties or a cozy family dinner, it combines the rich flavors of shrimp and crab with the comfort of cheesy biscuit nachos. Trust me, this one-pan seafood dinner will impress your loved ones and make your life a little easier. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Nacho Skillet
This Seafood Nacho Skillet is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. The combination of shrimp and crab creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-pan seafood dinner, which means less cleanup for you! With gooey cheese and crispy biscuit nachos, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients for Seafood Nacho Skillet
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Seafood Nacho Skillet. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: This is the base of your nachos, providing a fluffy and buttery texture. You can use any brand you like, or even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Cooked shrimp: Peeled and deveined, shrimp adds a sweet, briny flavor. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the skillet.
- Lump crab meat: This brings a touch of luxury to your dish. Look for high-quality crab meat, as it enhances the overall taste. Canned crab works in a pinch, too!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey, mozzarella is essential for that cheesy goodness. It creates a lovely stretch when you dig in.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: This adds a sharp flavor that complements the seafood beautifully. A blend of both cheeses gives the best of both worlds!
- Diced tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a burst of color and freshness. You can also use canned tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
- Sliced green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. Feel free to substitute with chives if you prefer.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh finish. You can swap it for cilantro if you’re a fan of that flavor.
- Garlic powder: This adds depth and aroma. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to use that instead!
- Old Bay seasoning: A classic in seafood dishes, it brings a unique blend of spices that elevates the flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika and cayenne can work.
- Sour cream or ranch: Optional for topping, these add a creamy element that balances the dish. You can also use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—making this delicious Seafood Nacho Skillet!
How to Make Seafood Nacho Skillet
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust. While the oven warms up, grab your refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters and spread them evenly in a greased cast iron skillet. I love using cast iron for this dish; it gives a lovely crispy texture. Make sure the pieces are close together but not overlapping. This will create a solid base for your cheesy biscuit nachos!
Step 2: Layer the Seafood
Now, it’s time to layer on the seafood! Start by sprinkling the cooked shrimp and lump crab meat over the biscuit pieces. The combination of shrimp and crab creates a delightful flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Next, add the diced tomatoes and sliced green onions. These ingredients not only add color but also freshness to the dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle garlic powder and Old Bay seasoning over everything. This seasoning is a game-changer, enhancing the seafood flavors beautifully!
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Cheese lovers, rejoice! It’s time to add the star of the show. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the seafood and veggies. The mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all crave, while the cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor. Using both cheeses gives you the best of both worlds. Make sure to cover everything well; you want every bite to be cheesy and delicious. Trust me, this cheesy biscuit nachos layer is what makes this dish truly irresistible!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; you want the biscuits to turn golden brown and the cheese to bubble up. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! If you like a little extra crispiness, you can broil it for the last couple of minutes. Just be careful not to burn it! Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help everything set nicely.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to garnish and serve your Seafood Nacho Skillet! Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. This little touch makes a big difference. Serve it hot, alongside a bowl of sour cream or ranch for dipping. I love to set it in the center of the table, allowing everyone to dig in. It’s perfect for sharing and makes for a fun, interactive meal. Enjoy every cheesy, seafood-filled bite!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking time.
- Use a mix of fresh and frozen seafood for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- Don’t skip the Old Bay seasoning; it’s key to that classic seafood taste.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste; it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Equipment Needed
- Cast iron skillet: Ideal for even cooking and a crispy base. If you don’t have one, any oven-safe skillet will do.
- Cutting board: Essential for chopping your ingredients. A sturdy surface makes prep easier.
- Sharp knife: For cutting the biscuit dough and veggies with ease.
- Measuring cups: Helpful for portioning out your ingredients accurately.
- Oven mitts: Don’t forget these to protect your hands when handling the hot skillet!
Variations
- Spicy Seafood Nacho Skillet: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the seafood for black beans and corn for a delicious meatless version.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free biscuit dough to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheesy Pesto Twist: Mix in some pesto with the seafood for an herby, cheesy flavor explosion.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace biscuit dough with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Salad: Pair your Seafood Nacho Skillet with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Cold Beverages: Serve with chilled white wine or a light beer to complement the seafood flavors.
- Presentation: Use colorful plates and garnish with extra parsley for a vibrant table setting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this Seafood Nacho Skillet ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the layers in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a fantastic option for busy days!
Q: What can I substitute for the seafood in this recipe?
A: If seafood isn’t your thing, try a vegetarian option by using black beans and corn. It’s a delicious twist on the classic shrimp and crab skillet!
Q: How do I store leftovers from the Seafood Nacho Skillet?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A pepper jack or gouda can add a unique flavor to your cheesy biscuit nachos.
Q: Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free biscuit dough to make this easy skillet seafood bake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy the same great taste without worry!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Seafood Nacho Skillet is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to the table. The combination of shrimp and crab, nestled in gooey cheese and fluffy biscuit dough, creates a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family night, this recipe is sure to spark smiles and laughter. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying the moment and less time in the kitchen. So gather your loved ones, dig in, and savor every delicious bite of this Southern seafood comfort food!
Print
Seafood Nacho Skillet: A Must-Try Party Favorite!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Seafood
Description
A gooey, golden skillet filled with shrimp and crab, topped with melted cheese, perfect for game-day parties.
Ingredients
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ cup sour cream or ranch (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut biscuits into quarters and spread them evenly in a greased cast iron skillet.
- Sprinkle shrimp, crab, tomatoes, and green onions over the biscuits. Add garlic powder and Old Bay seasoning.
- Top generously with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until biscuits are golden and cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve with a side of sour cream or ranch for dipping.
Notes
- This dish is great for parties and gatherings.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Seafood Nacho Skillet, Shrimp and crab skillet, Cheesy biscuit nachos, One-pan seafood dinner, Easy skillet seafood bake, Southern seafood comfort food, Cast iron seafood recipe