Crab And Spaghetti Casserole
A creamy seafood pasta casserole combining crab, vermicelli, and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
- vermicelli noodles
- 2 Tbsp. margarine ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup ⓘ
- 1 c. half and half ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. cooked fresh or canned crab ⓘ
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced ⓘ
- 1/2 c. sliced water chestnuts ⓘ
- 2/3 c. Cheddar cheese or 1 can Cheddar cheese soup ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook vermicelli noodles according to package directions; drain.
- Melt margarine in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until limp, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup; blend in half and half, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Add cooked vermicelli and mix well.
- Gently stir in crab, diced eggs, and sliced water chestnuts.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle with cheese or mix cheese in earlier.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting the half and half with heavy cream. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk instead. Adding a splash of lemon juice can enhance the crab's flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, which can add a delightful twist to the dish. For more seafood inspiration, browse more American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea. For an extra seafood feast, it complements well with recipes like Cedar Creek Seafood Chowder or Shrimp Boats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab And Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 762 calories, with 9g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2726mg per serving (119% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen crab meat. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a creamier taste. Alternatively, using a can of Cheddar cheese soup instead of shredded cheese can also add richness to the dish.
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).