Crab Bake
A savory crab bake with cheesy, flaky crust, flavored with garlic and parsley—perfect for seafood lovers and easy to serve as a warm appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine Bisquick baking mix, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and half of the melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix by hand until well combined.
- Pat out the dough into a circle approximately 8 inches in diameter, with a slight lip around the edge.
- Sprinkle the crushed parsley flakes evenly over the top of the dough.
- Sprinkle the crab meat evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the crab, leaving about a 1/2-inch margin around the edge.
- Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the cheese begins to slightly brown on top.
- Combine the remaining melted butter with garlic powder and brush over the top of the bake immediately after removing from the oven.
- Slice into 8 pieces like a pizza and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a different seafood flavor. Ensure the dough is not overworked to maintain a light texture. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cheese works well, but fresh cheese melts better. Add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick. This recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or a main dish alongside a salad.
Serving Suggestions
This crab bake is best enjoyed hot and can be served as an appetizer or main dish. Pair it with a light salad like Sea Island Salad for a refreshing contrast. A glass of crisp white wine complements the rich flavors beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve alongside 5 Minute Soup for a complete seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the crab bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Bake contains roughly 346 calories, with 14g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% 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 other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack. Just keep the cheese's melting properties in mind for the best texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and toppings in advance, then assemble just before baking. This will save time when you're ready to serve, making it a great option for entertaining.
What can I serve with the crab bake?
The crab bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, or you can serve it with a dip like Crimson Crab Cheese Dip for added flavor. It also works well with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.
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).