Crab Mornay En Casserole
Crab Mornay En Casserole is a rich and creamy seafood dish featuring tender crabmeat and melted cheese, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour 1/2 cup of the cream sauce into individual casseroles and add 2 teaspoons of sherry wine to each.
- Add a layer of 1/2 cup cooked crabmeat to each casserole.
- Top each with a slice of American cheese.
- Sprinkle paprika as desired over each casserole.
- Add melted butter on top.
- Bake in a moderate oven (350°F) for 10 minutes and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of grated Parmesan to the cream sauce. You can substitute the American cheese with a blend of Gruyère and cheddar for a more complex flavor. If you're short on time, use store-bought cream sauce or make a quick béchamel instead. Adjust the amount of sherry wine to your taste; if you prefer a non-alcoholic option, use chicken or vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crab Mornay En Casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Lemon-Garlic Broiled Shrimp for a seafood-themed dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a warm, crusty bread or pairing with a light white wine to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook, as this can dry out the crab.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Mornay En Casserole contains roughly 48 calories, with 4g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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, you can use frozen crabmeat, but ensure it's fully thawed and drained before adding it to the casserole. Fresh crabmeat will provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen is a convenient alternative if fresh isn't available.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it well, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the sherry wine?
If you prefer not to use sherry wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white wine or a splash of lemon juice mixed with water. This will provide a similar acidity and depth of flavor without the alcohol.
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).