Crab Shells
Crab Shells offer a delicious appetizer with creamy crab filling, seasoned with spices and topped with paprika, perfect for entertaining or seafood lovers. Rich and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix pimento, mayonnaise, Worcestershire, Accent, Tabasco, green pepper, and mustard in a bowl.
- Add the crab meat to the mixture and combine gently.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, egg yolk, and parsley.
- Fill shell-shaped dishes with the crab mixture.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mayonnaise mixture over each filled shell.
- Sprinkle with paprika on top.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream to the crab mixture. If you don't have backfin crab meat, lump crab meat can be a suitable substitute, offering a chunkier texture. You can also use crushed Ritz crackers instead of saltines for a richer flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount of Tabasco according to your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
These crab shells make an excellent appetizer or party dish. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Lemon Herbed Salmon for a seafood-themed dinner. Consider offering a light white wine or sparkling water to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, place the crab shells in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crab meat rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Shells contains roughly 535 calories, with 53g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (301% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (185% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 959mg per serving (42% 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 prepare the crab shells in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture and fill the shells a few hours ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce mixed with a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar for a similar depth of flavor. Alternatively, a combination of balsamic vinegar and a dash of hot sauce can also work in a pinch.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, consider substituting the crab meat with a mixture of cooked artichoke hearts and finely chopped mushrooms. Add some Old Bay seasoning to mimic the seafood flavor, and follow the same preparation steps for a delightful alternative.
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).