Baked Crab Meat
Creamy baked crab meat dish with melted American cheese, mushrooms, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for seafood lovers and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and flour together.
- Cook the milk and American cheese until thick, stirring constantly.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, onion salt, celery salt, garlic salt, salt, mushrooms, crab meat, and lemon juice; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Cover with bread crumbs.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream when mixing in the cheese. If American cheese isn't available, cheddar or a mix of cheeses can work well as substitutes. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a bit of Old Bay seasoning, which is popular in many seafood recipes. For a crunchier topping, mix the bread crumbs with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling on top.
Serving Suggestions
This baked crab meat makes a delightful main dish and pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside macaroni slaw salad or crusty bread. You can also offer a tangy dipping sauce on the side to complement the flavors. It’s perfect for a casual family dinner or a special occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the baked crab meat in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to keep it moist. Reheat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the dish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Crab Meat contains roughly 400 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1495mg per serving (65% 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 fresh crab meat instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh crab meat can enhance the flavor of the dish. Just ensure to remove any shell pieces and add it at the same stage as the canned crab meat. Fresh crab will give a more delicate texture and taste, making this dish even more special.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. This will add a slightly different flavor but will still yield good results in the dish.
How do I know when the dish is done baking?
The baked crab meat is done when the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly around the edges. Baking it in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes should achieve this. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
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).