Crabmeat Casserole Or Dip
Crabmeat casserole combines tender crab with seasoned celery and shallots, baked to perfection. A creamy, savory dish ideal for seafood lovers and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, sauté chopped celery and shallots in butter until soft.
- Add cream cheese and seasonings, then blend until smooth.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in crabmeat.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using mascarpone cheese as a substitute for cream cheese. If you're short on time, pre-chopped celery and shallots can save you some prep work. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavors, and for a bit of heat, incorporate some red pepper flakes. This dish is versatile and can also be served as a dip with crackers or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crabmeat casserole alongside a fresh green salad or with crusty bread for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Caesar Of The Sea for a seafood-themed dinner. You can also offer it as an appetizer at parties, accompanied by assorted crackers or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, but be cautious not to overheat it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat Casserole Or Dip contains roughly 376 calories, with 15g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 595mg per serving (26% 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 instead of fresh?
Yes, canned crabmeat is a convenient alternative and works well in this recipe. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the mixture to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole too watery.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This crabmeat casserole can be complemented with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light salad, a glass of white wine, or even pairing it with dishes like Crabbies(An All-Time Favorite!) for an appealing spread that showcases seafood recipes.
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).