Crab Meat (Surimi) Au Gratin
Crab Meat Au Gratin is a rich, creamy dish highlighting tender lump crab meat infused with a tangy white wine and seasoned sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers, it combines smooth textures with savory flavors, baked to golden perfection, making it an elegant centerpiece or appetizer for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a white sauce by melting butter and stirring in flour.
- Add milk and chicken bouillon, then cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and add well-beaten egg, sherry, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in broken-up crab meat into the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the milk with heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat milk. You can also replace sherry with white wine or omit it entirely for a non-alcoholic variation. When folding in crab meat, do so gently to maintain its delicate texture. Adding a bit of lemon juice can enhance the flavors as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crab Meat Au Gratin with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Broccoli Soup for a comforting dinner. For an elegant touch, serve it alongside crusty bread or rice pilaf to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the crab rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Meat (Surimi) Au Gratin contains roughly 122 calories, with 4g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1973mg per serving (86% 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 crab meat instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Fresh lump crab meat will provide better flavor and texture, but canned can be a convenient alternative if you're short on time.
What type of cheese is best for topping?
A sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese works well for this recipe, as they melt beautifully and complement the flavors of the dish. You can also experiment with a blend of cheeses for added complexity.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking 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).