Crab Imperial
Crab Imperial is a rich, creamy seafood dish featuring tender crabmeat blended with flavorful seasonings and topped with crunchy cracker crumbs. Baked to perfection, it offers a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and buttery notes, making it an elegant appetizer or main course for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix thoroughly the crabmeat, Miracle Whip, eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, parsley flakes, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Gently turn over the mixture with your hands to combine.
- Place the mixture in cleaned crab shells or a baking dish.
- Top with cracker crumbs, spoon melted butter over the crumbs, and sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake until browned and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream instead of Miracle Whip. You can also add diced bell peppers or chopped green onions for extra flavor. If you don't have crabmeat, imitation crab can be a more affordable substitute. Ensure the mixture is well combined to maintain the crab's delicate texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Crab Imperial hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside rice or a crusty bread. You can also browse more seafood recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, warming it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crabmeat tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Imperial contains roughly 322 calories, with 2g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1880mg per serving (82% 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 make Crab Imperial ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving to achieve the best texture and flavor. This makes it a great option for entertaining or busy weeknights.
What type of crabmeat should I use?
You can use fresh lump crabmeat for the best flavor and texture, but claw meat or canned crabmeat are also acceptable. Just ensure you check for any shells before mixing it into the dish to avoid any unpleasant bites.
Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or even a dash of hot sauce for some heat. These additions can enhance the flavor profile and make the dish even more enjoyable.
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).