What are some of the best recipes I’ve ever shared with you guys? Is it a family favorite? I think I first tasted this crab casserole when I was barely tall enough to see over the top of the dish. My grandma’s kitchen has a counter. The aroma of it baking—that buttery, seafoody smell—would fill the whole house, and the smell would be a bit cheesy. I still have those warm, cozy memories. This isn’t just a recipe, it’s …a hug in ….a dish. What is the best comfort food? What’s a casserole? What is a good crab Casserole Recipe? Any time of the year, it is an absolute delight. Prepare to fall in love with someone!
What is crab casserole?
What is this delicious dish? What is a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious baked casserole? It’s essentially a blend of tender crab, usually mixed with creamy sauce, and some form of binder. What are some examples of breadcrumbs or crackers? When the mixture is baked, it’s golden brown and bubbly. What is my grandma’s recipe? What is the Absolute Best? Is it rich, flavorful, and has this amazing texture that just keeps you coming back for more? What is the kind of dish that feels fancy, but is surprisingly simple to whip up?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good recipes for crab casserole? What is the first and foremost, the human mind?flavor. It’s an explosion of savory, slightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying tastes. The sweetness of the crab perfectly balances the richness of Cream Sauce, and the touch of herbs. What are some spices that give it that extra oomph? Then there’s the second partsimplicityIs this a one-pan wonder? No complicated techniques here, just simple steps that anyone can follow. Plus, it’s pretty cool.cost-efficientIs it bad to buy crab when it’s on sale? What I love about this is its simplicity.versatility. You can serve it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it always feels special. What’s a good dinner party? Trust me, you and your family are going to ask for this again and again! I swear it’s like a hug on the plate.
How do you make crab casserole?
Quick Overview
What is the basic rundown? How do I make a creamy, dreamy sauce, fold in the delicious crab, and bake it all? When it’s bubbly and golden brown, mix it all together. What is the beauty of this recipe? What are some of the best breadcrumbs recipes? What is a no-fuss, one-dish wonder that’s going to be able to become tastiest in your dinner rotation? Is it easier than you think?
Ingredients
For the Crab Casserole:
- 1 pound lump crabmeat, fresh or pasteurized, picked over to remove any shells (This is important! Nothing ruins a good bite like shell. I like to get the pre-picked, if I’m short on time).
- 1/2 cup butter, unsalted (real butter always)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
- 2 cups whole milk (I’ve tested this with almond milk and it works perfectly too)?
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (This makes it extra decadent! If you’re watching calories, you can get away with a little less).
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (my secret ingredient!)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste. 1 teaspoon pepper.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, or to taste.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for the topping – you can use regular breadcrumbs too, but I love the texture of panko)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for the breadcrumb topping)
Ingredients for Optional additions:
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry (it adds a wonderful depth of flavor) (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper, sauteed (for a little color and crunch)
- 1/4 cup chopped celery (for added texture)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, let’s get the oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). If you have a 9×13 inch baking dish, lightly butter it. How do you make a crab casserole? If you don’t have butter, cooking spray will work just fine, but butter gives it a nice flavor. Set it aside while we get started.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your panko breadcrumbs and the melted butter. Set aside. How do I make breadcrumbs crispy? In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning together. Set aside. What happens when you add the wet ingredients to the water? What are the ingredients later How do I make a smooth texture?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Set aside. Once melted, whisk in the flour mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. When it turns golden in color, it smells nutty. What’s called a roux is the base for our creamy sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes How do you keep whisking to prevent lumps from forming? Is it possible to use a wooden spoon or whisk? When the sauce is ready, it should coat the back of your spoon. Can you add sherry at this stage if you’re using it?
Step 4: Combine
Remove sauce from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, and chives until the cheese is melted and the herbs are fragrant. Taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed. I usually add a little extra salt and pepper because I like the flavor. Now, fold in the crabmeat. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break up the meat. If you’re using chopped bell pepper and/or celery, add them here as well. If you want to mix it just until everything is incorporated.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Pour the crab mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the panko breadcrumb mixture over the top. Make sure to cover the entire surface for the best golden, crispy topping. The optional veggies can also be sprinkled over the mixture for a little added texture.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
If you’re feeling fancy, you can use a fork to create swirl patterns on top of breadcrumbs. It’s totally optional, but it looks nice! If you’re not a fan of breadcrumbs, you can top it with some extra grated Parmesan cheese. Is it necessary to add some extra herbs before baking? What is your dish? Feel free to get creative.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. The edges should be lightly browned. To be extra sure, you can insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean, or with sandpaper. Just a little bit of the creamy sauce clinging to it. If you find that the topping is browning too quickly, you can tent the baking dish with aluminum. If you’re baking in the oven, use foil for the last few minutes. All ovens are different. Keep an eye on them!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set a bit, and it’ll be easier to slice and serve. While it cools, the flavors will meld together, and it will taste even better. If you want to add extra Parmesan or herbs, this is the time.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
What are some good ways to serve crab casserole as a side dish? Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! What is the best way to serve a casserole dish?
What is the best way to serve it?
Crab Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with all kinds of sides. What are some ideas, depending on the occasion?
For Breakfast: This casserole is a lovely addition to a special breakfast or brunch! Pair it with a simple fruit salad, some fluffy scrambled eggs, and a hot cup of coffee. A mimosa would be a perfect brunch pairing if you are in the mood for a celebratory drink! Consider adding some sliced avocado or a side of crispy bacon for an extra indulgence.
For Brunch: A little something extra goes a long way. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the crab casserole. You could also serve it with some crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. Mimosas or Bloody Marys are classic brunch drinks that complement this casserole beautifully.
As Dessert: I know it seems odd but this crab casserole is also great for an after-dinner treat! A light, citrusy sorbet or a lemon tart makes a nice complement. You could also serve it alongside a simple berry crumble or a light vanilla ice cream.
For Cozy Snacks: This casserole is also the perfect cozy snack for a night in! Pair it with a simple, crunchy green salad and a nice, refreshing drink like iced tea or a light beer.
Honestly, though, this crab casserole is so good, it’s great all by itself. My kids, especially, love it served with a side of garlic bread for dipping into that amazing sauce. That’s a real winner for my family, it’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crab Casserole
Over the years, I’ve made this recipe countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect. Here are some of my best tips and tricks:
Crab Prep: Always make sure to pick through your crabmeat. Even if you buy pre-picked crab, there might be a few stray bits of shell. Take the time to check it thoroughly before you add it to the sauce. Nobody wants a surprise in their bite!
Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the crab once it’s in the sauce. Gentle folding is key to keeping those delicate crab pieces intact. If you’re using fresh crab, I highly recommend it because it makes all the difference! When the sauce thickens, it’s ready to go – don’t let it boil or it may get too thick.
Swirl Customization: If you like the swirl, try not to over-swirl. A light touch gives the best effect. If you don’t want to bother with the swirl, you can just sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly. It will still taste amazing!
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of Gruyere and Parmesan is another great choice. As I mentioned before, you can also use almond milk instead of regular milk. The texture might change just a little, but the taste will still be fantastic.
Baking Tips: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your casserole while it’s baking. If the top is browning too quickly, lightly tent it with aluminum foil. And let it cool a little bit before you cut into it; it helps it hold its shape and keeps the sauce from running everywhere.
Glaze Variations: If you want to add some heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce is a great idea. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice after baking adds a bright, fresh flavor. Feel free to experiment to find what you love!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your crab casserole to ensure it’s just as delicious the next day:
Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave this out at room temperature for more than two hours. The crab is the primary ingredient, so that must be considered.
Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover crab casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain the best texture. Make sure to cover it tightly! It’s best to keep this cold.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap, and then wrap again in foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can bake the thawed casserole as instructed, or you can reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Glaze Timing Advice: I like to add the glaze fresh when I’m ready to serve the casserole. If you’re freezing it, you can freeze the unglazed casserole and add the glaze after you thaw and reheat it. If you are adding the glaze before freezing, I would recommend leaving it out as the freezer can change the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Well, that’s it! I truly hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does. It’s one of those dishes that always feels special, no matter the occasion. If you give it a try, please let me know how it goes in the comments! I’d love to hear what you think, and if you have any variations or tips of your own, I’d be so excited to hear about them. Happy baking, my friends! And if you’re looking for more comforting recipes, be sure to check out my other recipes – you might like the Classic Chicken Pot Pie or my Creamy Tomato Soup!
Crab Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Crab meat
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup Celery diced
- 0.25 cup Onion diced
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.25 cup Bread crumbs
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine crab meat, mayonnaise, celery, and onion.
- Stir in 0.75 cup of the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and bread crumbs.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
