The savory scent of sautéed seafood wafting through your kitchen can transport you to coastal shores in an instant. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Seafood Newburg—a luxurious dish that boasts tender lobster, shrimp, and scallops enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce enhanced with a splash of sherry. What makes this recipe a true standout is its effortless elegance: not only does it elevate any gathering, but it also brings restaurant-quality flair to your dinner table without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dish promises to impress while allowing you to savor the moment. Are you ready to dive into this indulgent culinary adventure?
Why is Seafood Newburg a must-try?
Indulgent Flavor: This dish combines tender seafood with a luxurious cream sauce, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.
Versatile Options: You can easily mix and match seafood, whether it’s lobster, crab, shrimp, or scallops, making it customizable for everyone’s tastes.
Effortless Elegance: Ideal for any gathering or celebration, this recipe impresses without being overly complicated, proving that great things come from your kitchen.
Quick Prep Time: You can have this dazzling dish ready in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Seafood Newburg brings a taste of coastal indulgence right to your table, making it sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Seafood Newburg Ingredients
For the Seafood
- Lobster – Adds a rich sweetness; crab can be used for variety.
- Shrimp – Ensure they’re deveined and thawed if frozen for optimal tenderness.
- Scallops – Must be patted dry to achieve a perfect golden sear.
For the Sauce
- Butter – Key for searing seafood and creating the sauce; can substitute with olive oil if preferred.
- Shallots – Adds depth to the sauce; onions can be substituted.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances aroma and flavor; avoid powdered garlic for best results.
- Flour – Necessary for thickening the sauce; do not substitute.
- Dry Sherry – Infuses complexity; can replace with dry white wine or brandy.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a rich base; consider half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Salt and White Pepper – Adjust to suit your taste; enhances overall flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Seafood Newburg
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Begin by patting the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Next, cut the lobster into bite-sized pieces and clean the shrimp, ensuring they are deveined and thawed. Drying all seafood thoroughly will help achieve that delightful golden finish when cooking the Seafood Newburg.
Step 2: Sear Scallops
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until it starts to bubble. Carefully add the scallops to the skillet and sear them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Once perfectly cooked, transfer the scallops to a plate and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet, letting it melt completely. Once melted, add the finely chopped shallots, sautéing for about 3–4 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, laying the flavorful groundwork for your Seafood Newburg.
Step 4: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the shallots and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux. This will help thicken your sauce and provide a delicious base. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes a golden shade, signaling the perfect stage for the next ingredient.
Step 5: Incorporate Liquids
Gradually pour in the dry sherry while stirring constantly, allowing it to deglaze the pan and lift any delicious bits stuck to the bottom. After the sherry is well combined, slowly add the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture begins to simmer. Let it cook for about 2–3 minutes, thickening into a luscious sauce.
Step 6: Season and Combine
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and white pepper to your preference. Fold in the bite-sized lobster and shrimp, gently stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Carefully return the seared scallops to the skillet, warming everything through for an additional 2 minutes to meld all the flavors perfectly in your Seafood Newburg.
Step 7: Final Touches
Check the consistency of your sauce; if it’s too thick, add a splash of cream or broth to reach your desired level. Serve the Seafood Newburg immediately over toast points, fluffy rice, or in puff pastry shells while garnishing with fresh parsley for an elegant touch. Enjoy the indulgent flavors that this luxurious dish brings to your table!
Variations & Substitutions for Seafood Newburg
Feel free to get creative and tailor this delectable Seafood Newburg to your taste and dietary needs!
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Crab Swap: Replace lobster with sweet crab for an equally rich and delightful flavor that brings a new twist.
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Shrimp Swap: Opt for scallops instead of shrimp for a luxurious change, giving your dish a delightful texture.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to keep it rich without the dairy.
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Wine Alternative: If sherry isn’t on hand, use a splash of white grape juice mixed with a little vinegar for sweetness and acidity.
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Heat Element: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Vegetable Boost: Add in fresh spinach or asparagus for a pop of color and extra nutrition—perfect for a well-rounded meal.
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Serving Style: Serve in puff pastry shells for an elegant touch; this makes for an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
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Richer Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, consider blending in a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone; it will elevate the richness to another level.
Experimenting with these variations can transform your Seafood Newburg into a dish that suits any occasion or palate, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this indulgent experience!
What to Serve with Seafood Newburg?
The perfect meal deserves equally delightful companions that enhance and elevate the experience.
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Fluffy Rice: Offers a soft, subtle backdrop that beautifully soaks up the rich cream sauce while providing a satisfying texture.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, this classic adds a comforting element that complements the seafood, perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness.
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Steamed Asparagus: Bright and crisp, this vegetable contrasts the richness of the Seafood Newburg, adding a pop of freshness and color to your plate.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, zesty salad brings a refreshing crunch that pairs wonderfully with the indulgent flavors of the seafood, enhancing the meal’s overall balance.
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Chardonnay: This white wine offers a harmonious pairing, with its crisp acidity cutting through the richness of the dish, enhancing the seafood flavors beautifully.
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Lemon Tart: Sweet yet tangy, this dessert cleanses the palate after the creamy indulgence, leaving a refreshing finish to your meal that’s sure to impress.
Storage Tips for Seafood Newburg
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To prevent the sauce from thickening too much, reheat gently with a splash of cream.
Freezer: Seafood Newburg can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, do so slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid boiling, which can cause the sauce to separate.
Wrap Well: If you plan to store in the fridge or freezer, ensure it’s well-wrapped or in a sealed container to preserve freshness and prevent freezer burn.
Make Ahead Options
These Seafood Newburg preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the sauce (steps 3-5) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to finish the dish, gently reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat while stirring to maintain its creamy texture. For optimal results, keep the seafood (lobster, shrimp, and scallops) uncooked until just before serving, as this ensures every bite is just as delicious and tender when plated. By prep in advance, you’ll save valuable time, making your special occasion even more enjoyable!
Expert Tips for Seafood Newburg
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Temperature Matters: Always use medium heat when preparing your seafood; too high can lead to overcooking, while too low won’t achieve the perfect sear.
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Fresh is Best: Choose fresh seafood for the best flavor. Frozen seafood can be used, but ensure it’s completely thawed and well-dried before cooking.
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Thickening Tips: When creating the roux, make sure to stir continuously for even thickness. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of cream or broth gradually to loosen it.
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Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the cream sauce to simmer gently to avoid curdling. Whisk gently if ever it begins to separate during cooking.
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Customize Your Seafood: Feel free to mix and match your seafood in the Seafood Newburg. Lobster, crab, shrimp, and scallops all bring unique flavors to the dish, so switch it up to suit your taste!
Seafood Newburg Recipe FAQs
What type of seafood is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use a variety of seafood in your Seafood Newburg. Tender lobster, shrimp, crab, and scallops are all wonderful choices. If you opt for shrimp or scallops, make sure they are thawed and patted dry for optimal texture. Fresh seafood will yield the best flavor, so I recommend it!
How should I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within 2 days. If the sauce thickens upon reheating, simply add a splash of cream to bring it back to its creamy state.
Can I freeze Seafood Newburg?
Very! Seafood Newburg can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring well to maintain that creamy consistency.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has become too thick, don’t fret! Just add a little bit of warm broth or cream slowly while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. This way, you can adjust the texture without compromising the flavor.
What dietary considerations should I be aware of?
If you’re catering to guests with allergies or dietary restrictions, be mindful of shellfish allergies as they are common. Additionally, you could substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, but do check with anyone who may have lactose intolerance first.
Can I make any variations?
Absolutely! Mix and match your seafood for delightful variety. For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also toss in fresh spinach or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious touch. Feel free to get creative!
Indulge in Creamy Seafood Newburg for a Special Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by patting the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Next, cut the lobster into bite-sized pieces and clean the shrimp, ensuring they are deveined and thawed.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until it starts to bubble. Carefully add the scallops to the skillet and sear them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet, letting it melt completely. Once melted, add the finely chopped shallots, sautéing for about 3–4 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the shallots and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
- Gradually pour in the dry sherry while stirring constantly, allowing it to deglaze the pan. After the sherry is well combined, slowly add the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture begins to simmer.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and white pepper to your preference. Fold in the bite-sized lobster and shrimp, gently stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce.
- Check the consistency of your sauce; if it’s too thick, add a splash of cream or broth to reach your desired level. Serve the Seafood Newburg immediately over toast points, rice, or in puff pastry shells while garnishing with fresh parsley.
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