Crawfish and Shrimp Balls Smothered in Gravy

Why Make This Recipe

Crawfish and Shrimp Balls Smothered in Gravy is a delightful dish that brings the tastes of the sea right to your table. These crispy, savory balls packed with flavorful seafood are great for family gatherings or any casual get-together. Plus, the warm gravy adds a comforting touch that makes this dish even more satisfying. Whether you are a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress!

How to Make Crawfish and Shrimp Balls Smothered in Gravy

Ingredients:

• 1 pound crawfish tails, cooked
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying
• 2 cups gravy (of your choice)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine crawfish tails, shrimp, bread crumbs, egg, onions, bell pepper, green onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into balls and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the balls until golden brown on all sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve the fried balls topped with warm gravy.

How to Serve Crawfish and Shrimp Balls Smothered in Gravy

Serve these delicious seafood balls while they are hot. Make sure to pour warm gravy over them just before serving, allowing the rich sauce to soak into the fried goodness. You can pair this dish with rice or crusty bread, which will soak up the delicious gravy perfectly.

How to Store Crawfish and Shrimp Balls Smothered in Gravy

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven to maintain their crispiness or microwave them if you prefer a quicker option. You can also store the gravy separately to keep the balls crispy.

Tips to Make Crawfish and Shrimp Balls Smothered in Gravy

• Ensure the mixture is well combined to keep the balls from falling apart while frying.
• Refrigerating the shaped balls helps them hold their form and fry better.
• Test the oil temperature with a small amount of the mixture; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
• For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning to the mixture.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by using different types of seafood, such as crab or fish, for a unique twist. Additionally, you could experiment with various gravies like white gravy or a spicy Creole sauce to change up the flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I bake the crawfish and shrimp balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Just brush them with a little oil before baking to help them brown.

Is it possible to freeze the uncooked balls?
Yes! You can freeze the shaped balls before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from the freezer when you are ready to cook.

What kind of gravy works best with this dish?
Any type of gravy can work, but a rich sausage gravy or a traditional brown gravy pairs especially well with the seafood flavors. You can also make a homemade gravy for an added touch!