Crab Meat
A creamy crab meat casserole with green peas and melted cheese, topped with paprika and pepper. Perfect for seafood lovers and elegant enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crab meat, mushroom soup, and green peas in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with pepper, grated cheese, and paprika.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dish, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the mixture. If you don't have crab meat, imitation crab can be a cost-effective substitute. You can also add sautéed onions or garlic for extra flavor. This dish can be seasoned with Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crab meat casserole with a side of fresh asparagus salad with lump crabmeat for a beautiful contrast. A light green salad or some crusty bread pairs well too. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as an impressive dish at gatherings. For a seafood-themed meal, consider serving alongside shrimp and crab dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven method will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Meat contains roughly 73 calories, with 5g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 crab meat in this recipe?
Yes, frozen crab meat can be used, but ensure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the casserole.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can create a creamy sauce using butter, flour, and broth. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup or any other creamy soup can be a suitable substitute, depending on your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cheese and spices before baking. This makes it convenient for gatherings or busy weeknights!
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).