Crab Regal
Crab Regal is a rich, creamy dish featuring tender crabmeat combined with melted cheese, crunchy bread crumbs, and savory seasonings. Perfect for elegant appetizers or light meals, its delightful flavors and smooth texture make it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 oz. crabmeat, cooked, drained and flaked ⓘ
- 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar or Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons dry bread crumbs ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped celery ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped pimiento ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon instant minced onion ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- dash of pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 1-quart casserole or mixing bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Spoon into 2 individual casserole dishes, sauce dishes, or shells.
- Cook, uncovered, 1 minute and 30 seconds or until edges bubble.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of sour cream. You can substitute the crabmeat with shrimp for a different flavor profile. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Ensure the cheese is well-distributed for an even melt, and feel free to experiment with different cheese types like Gruyère to elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Crab Regal as an elegant appetizer or a light main dish. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a delightful seafood-themed meal, consider serving alongside 'Charleston' Oysters or a side of Baked Fish Florentine. A drizzle of lemon butter sauce can also enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the crab mixture in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short increments, stirring in between until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the delicate texture of the crabmeat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Regal contains roughly 196 calories, with 9g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1410mg per serving (61% 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 crabmeat for this recipe?
Yes, canned crabmeat can be used as a convenient substitute. Just ensure to drain it well and check for any shell pieces before flaking. Fresh crabmeat offers superior flavor, but canned is a great time-saver.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make Crab Regal healthier, consider reducing the amount of mayonnaise and cheese or substituting with Greek yogurt and low-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or peppers, to increase the nutritional value without compromising flavor.
What can I serve with Crab Regal?
Crab Regal can be served with a variety of sides. It goes well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy baked potatoes. For a complete seafood feast, serve alongside Crab Stroganoff or Shimmering Shrimp Mold for a delightful spread.
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).