Amelia Island Crab
A rich and flavorful crab casserole with a creamy mustard and lemon sauce, topped with bread crumbs and baked to golden perfection—perfect for seafood lovers and special dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs well in a mixing bowl.
- Add milk and 1 1/2 cups of fresh bread crumbs to the eggs and mix well.
- Flake the crab meat and add it along with dry mustard, white pepper, lemon juice, melted margarine or butter, Tabasco, salt, and green pepper if using.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Cover the top with the remaining bread crumbs.
- Drizzle melted butter over the crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top is golden brown, approximately 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding more Tabasco or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning. If you don’t have fresh crab meat, canned crab works in a pinch—just ensure it's well-drained. You can substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier twist, or use panko breadcrumbs for added crunch. For a heartier dish, mix in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside rice or a light pasta. This dish also goes well with a glass of chilled white wine, enhancing the seafood flavors. Explore more seafood recipes for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dish rubbery. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can still be tasty when reheated properly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amelia Island Crab contains roughly 656 calories, with 17g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1287mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen crab meat instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen crab meat is a great alternative. Just ensure it's fully thawed and well-drained before using it in the recipe. This will help maintain the consistency and flavor of the dish. Fresh crab is ideal, but frozen can still deliver great taste when properly prepared.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to the crab mixture, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños. You can also experiment with other hot sauces or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas can work as binders, though they may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust the seasonings if necessary to balance the taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).