Crab Casserole Ii
A creamy seafood casserole layered with bread, vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings featuring rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice 4 slices of bread into a buttered baking dish.
- Mix crab or shrimp, mayonnaise, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, and chopped celery.
- Spread the mixture on the bread in the baking dish.
- Trim crusts from the remaining 4 slices of bread and place them on top of the mixture.
- Beat the eggs separately.
- Add milk to the beaten eggs and pour the mixture over the casserole.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 325°F for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spread mushroom soup on top.
- Sprinkle with grated cheese and paprika.
- Bake for an additional hour at 325°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of crab and shrimp. You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you prefer a little heat, add some diced jalapeños to the mixture. For a flavorful twist, try using different types of cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. This casserole is great for meal prep, and you can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This crab casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious flavors. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon over the top for a bright finish. It's perfect for brunch, dinner parties, or as a comforting weeknight meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Casserole Ii contains roughly 825 calories, with 18g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1625mg per serving (71% 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 or shrimp in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen crab or shrimp. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing them into the casserole. This will help prevent excess moisture, ensuring a better texture in your dish.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature for even cooking.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
While white bread is traditional, you can use whole grain or sourdough for added flavor and texture. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the casserole ingredients without becoming too soggy.
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).