Crab Strata
Crab Strata is a creamy, savory casserole combining tender noodles, succulent crabmeat, mushrooms, and toasted almonds, perfect for elegant brunches or family dinners with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles as directed on the package.
- Drain the noodles.
- Place a layer of noodles in a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add a layer of crabmeat, then a layer of cottage cheese and half of the sliced mushrooms.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour to the melted butter to make a paste (roux).
- Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually stir in milk and salt, blending well.
- Cook until the sauce is smooth and thickened; stir in minced chives.
- Pour half of the sauce over the casserole.
- Repeat layers with remaining noodles, crabmeat, cottage cheese, mushrooms, and sauce.
- End with a layer of sauce on top.
- Sprinkle toasted slivered almonds over the surface.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh crab meat instead of canned. You can also substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese for a creamier texture. If you want to simplify, pre-made pasta sauce can replace the homemade sauce for a quicker prep time. Try adding spinach or other vegetables for added nutrition. For a crunchier topping, mix in some crushed shrimp crackers with the almonds.
Serving Suggestions
This crab strata makes a delightful main dish, perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Shrimp Crackers as a crunchy side. For an elegant touch, garnish with additional minced chives or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture may vary slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Strata contains roughly 678 calories, with 24g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (55% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1312mg per serving (57% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute broad noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure they are cooked al dente before layering in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the strata a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I do if I don't like crab?
If crab isn't your preference, you can substitute it with cooked shrimp or even shredded chicken for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, omit the seafood entirely and enhance the dish with extra vegetables or a mix of cheeses to keep it satisfying.
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).