Crabmeat Casserole
Crabmeat Casserole is a rich, creamy dish featuring tender crabmeat combined with vegetables and topped with cheesy bread and mushroom soup. Perfect for special occasions or family dinners, it offers comforting flavors with a hint of seafood elegance, appealing to both seafood lovers and those seeking hearty, satisfying meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange cubed bread on the bottom of a dish.
- Mix crabmeat, mayonnaise, chopped onion, chopped celery, and chopped green bell pepper together and spoon over the cubed bread.
- Trim 4 to 6 slices of bread and arrange over the crabmeat mixture.
- Beat eggs and milk together and pour over the mixture.
- Chill for 8 hours or longer.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake uncovered for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spread mushroom soup over the bread.
- Top with Cheddar cheese and paprika.
- Cook for one hour, covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream in place of some mayonnaise. You can also substitute the crabmeat with shrimp for a delightful twist. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped vegetables. To enhance flavor, add herbs like dill or parsley. Be cautious when baking; if the top browns too quickly, cover with foil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crabmeat casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Scallop Casserole for a seafood-themed dinner. For added flavor, consider a squeeze of lemon over the top before serving. This dish can also be a delightful brunch option alongside mimosas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat Casserole contains roughly 1754 calories, with 21g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value), iron (73% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1708mg per serving (74% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Is there a gluten-free option for the bread?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free bread cubes as a substitute. Just ensure that the bread is sturdy enough to hold up to the moisture from the egg and milk mixture, helping maintain the casserole's structure.
Can I add other seafood to this dish?
Yes, feel free to mix in shrimp or scallops for additional flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different seafood may require different baking times to ensure it's cooked through.
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).