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Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining something elegant with a homey touch, this Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe is where those cravings come true. I remember the first time I made these—everyone was raving about how delicate and creamy they were. These crepes feel fancy enough for a special dinner but are surprisingly straightforward once you know the steps. Plus, when you’re craving something with rich, buttery seafood flavor wrapped up in tender crepes topped with that dreamy béchamel, this recipe is your go-to.

What’s great about this Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe is that it’s perfect for a weekend brunch, a lovely dinner party, or even a cozy night in when you want to impress without stress. I love making the crepes from scratch—it’s like a little kitchen therapy. The creamy sauce brings everything together with a silky texture that makes each bite heavenly. Stick with me, and I’ll guide you through it so it all turns out just right.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients balance richness, freshness, and the sturdy texture needed for crepes and seafood filling. When you shop, picking freshest seafood and good quality butter will definitely boost your end result.

  • Flour: Look for all-purpose flour, it’s perfect for tender crepes without being heavy.
  • Salt: Just a pinch in the crepe batter to bring out all the flavors.
  • Baking powder: Helps add a tiny lift to the crepes, keeping them light and soft.
  • Milk: I use whole milk for creaminess, but 2% works fine too.
  • Eggs: They bind everything and enrich the batter perfectly.
  • Butter (melted): Adds richness; make sure it’s unsalted for better flavor control.
  • Mushrooms: Fresh white or cremini mushrooms give a nice earthy bite in the filling.
  • Green onions: Adds a hint of sharp freshness to contrast the creamy cheese.
  • Butter (for filling): Needed to sauté veggies and build flavor in the seafood mix.
  • Cooked seafood: A mix of lobster, crab, scallops, and shrimp chopped into bite-sized pieces works beautifully and gives you that deluxe feel.
  • Cream cheese: Cubed and melted into the filling for a luscious texture.
  • Half-and-half: Keeps the filling smooth and creamy without being too heavy.
  • Fresh parsley: Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh herbal note.
  • Sherry wine (optional): Just a splash to deepen the filling’s flavor if you have it on hand.
  • Swiss cheese: Shredded on top for that gooey, melty finish that you’ll crave.

Variations

I like to switch things up depending on what’s in season or what seafood I find at the market. It’s really flexible, and that’s the beauty of this recipe—you can make it truly your own.

  • Vegetarian variation: Replace seafood with roasted veggies like asparagus and spinach; it’s just as satisfying without the seafood. I tried this for a friend who’s pescatarian, and it was a big hit.
  • Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika in the filling to give those layers a nice kick.
  • Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and swap cream cheese for a cashew cream blend. I haven’t tried this often, but it can work if you prep carefully.
  • Seasonal herbs: Try fresh tarragon or dill instead of parsley for a different aromatic experience.

How to Make Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Perfect Crepe Batter

Start by mixing your dry ingredients—flour, salt, and baking powder—together in a large bowl. Then, beat the eggs with the milk, and slowly whisk this into the dry ingredients. Pour in the melted butter last, stirring gently until you get a smooth, thin batter. You’ll know it’s just right when it coats the back of a spoon without being too thick. I always rest my batter for at least 30 minutes—it makes the crepes tender and easier to work with, trust me on this one!

Step 2: Cook the Crepes Until Lightly Golden

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter, swirling the pan so it forms a thin, even layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges lift and it’s golden underneath, then flip carefully and give it another 30 seconds. Stack finished crepes on a plate and keep them covered with a clean towel to stay soft. Pro tip: Use a ladle for consistent sizing—it’ll make folding and serving a breeze later.

Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Green Onions

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and toss in the chopped mushrooms and green onions. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and everything is tender, about 5-7 minutes. This step brings that deep savory flavor which marries perfectly with the seafood filling. I like to season lightly here with salt and pepper to build layers of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Seafood, Cream Cheese, and Half-and-Half

Lower the heat and add your cooked seafood chopped into bite sizes along with the cream cheese cubes and half-and-half. Stir gently until the cream cheese melts into a smooth, creamy mixture. If you’re using sherry, splash it in now to add that subtle depth. Fold in the fresh parsley and season to taste. You’re aiming for a velvety, flavorful filling that isn’t too runny—if it looks too loose, just simmer a minute to thicken.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake Your Crepes

Lay each crepe flat and spoon a generous portion of the seafood filling down the center. Roll or fold the crepe to encase the filling neatly. Place them in a buttered baking dish, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. This melts everything together beautifully and adds a gorgeous finish.

How to Serve Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe

Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love garnishing with extra chopped parsley for freshness and a little lemon zest whenever I have it—it’s a zingy contrast to the creamy sauce. Sometimes, a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan adds a sharp undertone that wakes up the whole dish. These little touches make a big visual impact too.

Side Dishes

Pair them with a simple mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus for a bright, crunchy balance. I’ve also served these crepes alongside roasted baby potatoes when I wanted something heartier.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try folding crepes into neat triangles or rolling them up and slicing into bite-sized pinwheels for appetizer-style bites. You can also plate each crepe individually with a drizzle of extra béchamel sauce on top and a few tiny seafood pieces scattered as garnish to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover crepes with filling store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I separate layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. This way, you can enjoy a quick, satisfying meal the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these crepes both filled and unfilled. For best results, wrap individual crepes tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer bag. When I’m ready, I thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. The texture stays quite good if done right.

Reheating

Reheat in a warm oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered loosely with foil to avoid drying out. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too, but I find low oven heat keeps the crepes soft and the sauce creamy without turning rubbery.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

    Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water to prevent the filling from becoming soggy. Fresh seafood is great, but frozen works well when handled properly.

  2. Do I have to use Swiss cheese?

    No, Swiss cheese adds a nutty, mild flavor and melts beautifully, but you can substitute Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar if you prefer a different taste profile.

  3. Is it necessary to rest the crepe batter?

    Resting the batter isn’t a must, but I highly recommend it—resting helps the flour absorb the liquid and relaxes the gluten, resulting in crepes that are tender and less prone to tearing.

  4. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

    You can replace the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk for the crepes and coconut cream or cashew cream for the filling. Use dairy-free cheese substitutes to top the crepes before baking.

  5. Can I prepare the béchamel sauce separately?

    This recipe uses a creamy seafood filling that mimics béchamel richness, but if you want, you can prepare a classic béchamel sauce separately and spoon it over the crepes before baking for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe remains one of my favorites when I want to impress but keep things comfortable and approachable in the kitchen. The combination of tender crepes, luscious seafood filling, and cheesy finish feels like a warm hug from the plate. Once you try making your own from scratch, you’ll appreciate the little moments of flipping crepes, stirring creamy goodness, and hearing the cheese sizzle in the oven—it’s the kind of cooking that fills your home with love. I can’t wait for you to make this and have your own delicious memories.

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Seafood Crepes with Béchamel Sauce Recipe

Delight in these elegant seafood crepes filled with a creamy mixture of lobster, crab, scallops, and shrimp, complemented by sautéed mushrooms and green onions. Topped with Swiss cheese and enhanced with a subtle béchamel sauce infused with sherry, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or sophisticated brunch.

  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crepes:

  • 2 1/4 cups flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3 cups milk
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 6 medium mushrooms, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons green onions, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 1/2 cups cooked seafood (lobster, crab, scallops, shrimp), chopped
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/3 cup half-and-half
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sherry wine (optional)
  • 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crepe Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the milk while whisking to create a smooth batter. Beat in the eggs and melted butter until fully incorporated.
  2. Cook the Crepes: Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Pour a small ladle of batter into the pan, swirling it to evenly coat the bottom. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until edges lift and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook the other side briefly. Repeat until all batter is used. Set crepes aside.
  3. Sauté Mushrooms and Onions: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chopped mushrooms and sliced green onions, sautéing until tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Seafood Filling: To the sautéed vegetables, add the chopped cooked seafood and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese cubes and half-and-half, stirring until cream cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. Stir in chopped parsley and sherry wine if using. Remove from heat.
  5. Assemble the Crepes: Place a crepe on a flat surface, spoon a generous amount of the seafood filling onto the center. Roll up or fold the crepe around the filling. Repeat with remaining crepes.
  6. Add Swiss Cheese and Heat Through: Arrange the filled crepes in a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly on top. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Using a non-stick skillet specifically made for crepes will make cooking easier and yield thinner crepes.
  • The sherry wine is optional but adds a subtle depth to the filling’s flavor.
  • You can substitute half-and-half with light cream or whole milk for a lighter or richer filling.
  • Ensure seafood is cooked and well-chopped before adding to the filling to maintain a smooth texture.
  • Leftover crepes can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently to preserve texture.

Keywords: Seafood crepes, crepes with béchamel sauce, lobster crepes, crab crepes, scallop crepes, shrimp crepes, creamy seafood filling, French crepes

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