Broccoli Casserole With Crab Meat
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole with tender crab meat, topped with crunchy croutons, perfect for special occasions or family dinners that love seafood and hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the frozen chopped broccoli until tender.
- Sauté chopped onions in butter until translucent.
- Add cream of mushroom soup and one can of water to the onions.
- Combine the cooked broccoli, cheese, and lump crab meat; mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and sprinkle with croutons.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh broccoli instead of frozen, and add a dash of garlic powder or Old Bay seasoning to enhance the seafood taste. If you don’t have American cheese, cheddar or a blend of cheeses can work well. You can also substitute lump crab meat with canned crab for convenience, but ensure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli Casserole With Crab Meat pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. It also makes for a delightful brunch dish alongside biscuits or a quiche. Consider serving it with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat as it may dry out the crab meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Casserole With Crab Meat contains roughly 487 calories, with 8g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of crab meat?
If crab meat is unavailable or if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can use cooked shrimp or even canned tuna. For a vegetarian alternative, try adding sautéed mushrooms or a mix of other vegetables to maintain the casserole's hearty texture.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).