Crabmeat Au Gratin
Crabmeat Au Gratin is a deliciously rich casserole that combines the subtle sweetness of faux crabmeat with the creamy texture of shrimp soup and the crunch of slivered almonds. Topped with melted sharp Cheddar and buttered bread crumbs, this dish is perfect for gatherings or as a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix everything together, except cheese and crumbs, in a casserole.
- Top with cheese, then with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350° for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the mixture. If faux crabmeat is unavailable, shredded cooked chicken can be a suitable substitute. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor. To enhance the dish, you might also sprinkle some Old Bay seasoning over the top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Crabmeat Au Gratin is delicious served hot straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea. For a themed meal, you can complement this dish with American recipes such as Baked Salmon Loaf or Creamy Cheese Crab Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the dish rubbery. If desired, add a sprinkle of fresh cheese or breadcrumbs before reheating for a crispy top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat Au Gratin contains roughly 897 calories, with 33g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (66% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1733mg per serving (75% 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 fresh crabmeat instead of faux crabmeat?
Yes, fresh crabmeat can be used to enhance the flavor. Just ensure you adjust the quantity to match the texture you desire. Fresh crabmeat may also require a slight reduction in cooking time to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for the cream of shrimp soup?
If you don't have cream of shrimp soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as a substitute. For a homemade option, blend equal parts of heavy cream and broth with some seasonings to create a similar consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and assemble it in the casserole dish. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).