Cathy'S Crab Brunch Casserole
Cathy's Crab Brunch Casserole is a delightful dish combining tender crabmeat, crispy bacon, and melted Cheddar cheese layered with toasted croutons. Perfect for a hearty brunch or special breakfast, it offers rich, savory flavors loved by seafood enthusiasts and brunch lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crabmeat.
- Spread a layer of toasted croutons in a buttered 9-inch square casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with crabmeat and then cheese.
- Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a cheese layer.
- Beat the eggs; add milk and seasonings (onion salt, salt, pepper, prepared mustard).
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
- About 10 minutes before finishing, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the egg mixture. If you don't have crabmeat, canned tuna or cooked shrimp can be good substitutes. When layering, you can also include sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or sliced tomatoes. Serve alongside biscuits or a fruit platter for a well-rounded meal. It also goes well with savory dishes like Skillet Cabbage for a hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cathy'S Crab Brunch Casserole contains roughly 586 calories, with 14g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1508mg per serving (66% 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 it the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use day-old bread cut into cubes or even a bag of stuffing mix. Just ensure the bread is toasted to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).