Crab Imperial With Cheese
Crab Imperial with cheese offers a rich, creamy seafood dish with sharp cheese and savory seasonings, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and heavy cream.
- Add grated sharp cheese, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
- Gently fold in the crabmeat into the cheese sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as Gruyère or fontina, in addition to the sharp cheese. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Be careful not to overmix the crabmeat to keep the lumps intact for a more appealing presentation. This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Crab Imperial pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread or crackers for scooping. For a delightful twist, consider serving it with a side of Shrimp Buns to complement the seafood flavors. A glass of white wine would enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the Crab Imperial cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Imperial With Cheese contains roughly 269 calories, with 8g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2144mg per serving (93% 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 canned crabmeat instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned crabmeat, but be sure to choose high-quality, lump crab for the best flavor and texture. Drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your dish. Fresh crabmeat is ideal for flavor, though, and gives a more authentic taste to your Crab Imperial.
What can I substitute for Tabasco sauce?
If you prefer less heat or don't have Tabasco sauce, you can substitute it with a milder hot sauce or even a few dashes of cayenne pepper for some spice. Alternatively, if you want to avoid heat altogether, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness without the spice.
Is it possible to make Crab Imperial ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).