Baked Crab Meat Spread
Creamy baked crab meat spread with red bell peppers, green onions, and Parmesan cheese offers rich flavors and smooth texture, perfect for appetizers or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch pie pan.
- Melt margarine or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and minced garlic.
- Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in flour and white pepper; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture boils, then remove from heat.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Fold in crab meat.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie pan and bake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream instead of milk. You can substitute the crab meat with shrimp or even canned tuna for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. This dish can also be enhanced with lemon zest for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked crab meat spread with crispy crackers or toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing Caesar Salad With Capers for a light meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Tropical Coconut Fried Shrimp as part of a seafood-themed gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spread in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave in short intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Crab Meat Spread contains roughly 429 calories, with 12g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 fresh crab meat instead of frozen or canned?
Yes, fresh crab meat can be used in this recipe, and it will add a superior flavor. Just ensure it is cooked and shredded before adding it to the mixture. Adjust the seasoning slightly to complement the natural taste of the fresh crab.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this baked crab meat spread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the crab meat and cheeses, are also certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply pour the mixture into the pie pan and bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
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).