Crab Cutlet

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Crab cutlet combines tender crab meat with a rich, creamy sauce, coated in cracker crumbs for a crispy exterior—perfect for seafood lovers and elegant gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 4 T margarine or butter
  • 5 T flour
  • 1 t dry mustard
  • 1 t Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 t salt
  • 3 T parsley
  • 2 c milk
  • 1 lb crab claw meat
  • 1 egg
  • 2 c cracker crumbs

Instructions

  1. Melt margarine in a pan, remove from heat, and add flour, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  2. Blend well to form a smooth mixture.
  3. Gradually stir in milk, mixing constantly.
  4. Return to heat and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is very thick.
  5. Add beaten egg and Worcestershire sauce, then cool.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, you can substitute half the margarine with olive oil. Additionally, if you're out of dry mustard, ground mustard seeds can work as a substitute. For a crunchier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular cracker crumbs. Remember to taste your mixture before shaping it into cutlets to ensure proper seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve crab cutlets with a zesty lemon aioli or tartar sauce for dipping. They make a delightful appetizer or main dish when paired with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside baked potatoes or rice. These cutlets also pair beautifully with the appetizer Crab Dunk.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover crab cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain their crispy texture compared to microwaving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crab Cutlet contains roughly 575 calories, with 12g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2591mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).

575 kcal 29% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.8g 24% DV
Total Fat 14.5g 19% DV
Carbs 102.8g 37% DV
Fiber 4.7g 17% DV
Sugar 58.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2590.9mg 100% DV
Potassium 724.1mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 20.1mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 854.7mcg 95% DV
Vitamin C 49.8mg 55% DV
Vitamin D 2mcg 10% DV
Calcium 681.2mg 52% DV
Iron 9.7mg 54% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Shellfish

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 fresh crab meat instead of canned or frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh crab meat will provide a superior flavor and texture to your cutlets. Just ensure that it is properly cleaned and cooked before incorporating it into the mixture. Fresh crab meat can elevate the dish to a new level, making it even more delicious.

What can I serve with crab cutlets?

Crab cutlets pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy coleslaw. For a more substantial meal, try them alongside rice or quinoa. A refreshing cocktail or white wine can also enhance the dining experience.

Can I freeze crab cutlets?

Yes, you can freeze crab cutlets! After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

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).

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