Crab Orleans Casserole
Crab Orleans Casserole is a flavorful seafood dish featuring lump crabmeat, aromatic vegetables, and seasoned rice, baked to perfection—ideal for seafood lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onions, celery, and bell pepper in butter until tender.
- Blend in condensed cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth; add cooked rice, crabmeat, lemon juice, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Turn the mixture into a buttered 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with onion rings.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. If lump crabmeat is unavailable, canned crabmeat can be a suitable substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Using leftover rice can save time; just ensure it's well-separated before mixing. This dish can also be adapted with other seafood, making it versatile and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a refreshing Broccoli And Shrimp Salad for a complete meal. Serve alongside crusty bread or a light green salad to balance the richness of the casserole. For a fun twist, consider topping with crispy fried onions for added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Crab Orleans Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For a quick option, you can microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Orleans Casserole contains roughly 862 calories, with 21g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (153% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2013mg per serving (88% 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 this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking, or increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for crabmeat?
If crabmeat isn't available, you can use shrimp, cooked chicken, or even a mix of both. For a vegetarian option, consider using a medley of sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts to maintain a hearty texture.
Can I freeze Crab Orleans Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).