Crab Loaf
A savory crab loaf with tender crabmeat, green pepper, onion, and herbs, baked to perfection. Perfect for seafood lovers and elegant casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer green pepper and onion in one tablespoon of butter until browned.
- Make a sauce by adding flour, milk, salt, pepper, and seafood seasoning if using.
- Put crabmeat in a bowl.
- Add beaten eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, parsley, and the prepared sauce.
- Mold into a loaf and place in a buttered loaf dish.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes in a 325°F (160°C) oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you're short on crabmeat, canned crab can be a suitable substitute, but ensure to drain it well. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping. To enhance the loaf, try incorporating other seafood like shrimp or even a hint of Old Bay seasoning for a deeper flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your crab loaf with a side of mixed greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Shrimply Delicious Dip for an appetizer spread. You might also enjoy it alongside seasoned rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light white wine would complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover crab loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the loaf rubbery. Serve with a fresh salad for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Loaf contains roughly 577 calories, with 13g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (68% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 900mg per serving (39% 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 crabmeat for this recipe?
Yes, frozen crabmeat can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the loaf. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor in your dish.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise. It will provide creaminess with less fat and a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the regular bread with gluten-free bread and use a gluten-free flour alternative in the sauce. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
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).