Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Seafood Filling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup seafood or chicken broth
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pound cooked seafood mix (shrimp, crab, and/or scallops)
- ½ cup frozen corn, thawed (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
Instructions
- Bake the Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes, prick with a fork, rub with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake directly on the oven rack for 50-60 minutes, until tender. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Shells: Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh into a bowl, leaving a ¼-inch thick shell. Fluff the potato flesh with a fork and set aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery; cook until soft, 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
- Combine the Filling: Gradually whisk in the broth, milk, and cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, 3-4 minutes. Stir in Old Bay, paprika, Dijon, and lemon juice. Gently fold in the cooked seafood, corn (if using), and parsley. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Assemble: Gently fold the reserved potato flesh into the seafood mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon the filling generously back into the potato shells. Place on a baking sheet.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar and the Parmesan cheese over the tops. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and the cheese is golden. Garnish with chives and serve.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cheese.
- Ensure your seafood is well-drained and patted dry to prevent a watery filling.
- The potatoes and filling can be prepared up to a day ahead. Assemble and add cheese just before baking.
- For extra crispy tops, broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
