Crabmeat Hot Dish
A hearty seafood hot dish combining crab, tuna, and cheese, layered with bread and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place half of the bread cubes in the bottom of a greased pan.
- Sauté celery, green pepper, and onion in butter until tender.
- Spread the sautéed vegetables over the bread layer.
- Mix in cans of tuna and crab meat with mayonnaise, then spread over the vegetable layer.
- Beat eggs well, add milk, and pour evenly over the mixture.
- Let the assembled dish stand overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15 minutes.
- Spread a mixture of mushroom soup and grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for an additional hour at 325°F (160°C) until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also use leftover crab meat or even shrimp for a twist. Make sure to sauté the vegetables until they are soft to enhance their flavor in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crabmeat hot dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Seacoast Salad for a refreshing counterbalance. For a heartier option, consider serving it with crusty bread on the side. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat Hot Dish contains roughly 1387 calories, with 35g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (76% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1443mg per serving (63% 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 crab meat instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh crab meat in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it properly and add it to the mixture without overcooking, as it will be baked later. Fresh crab meat will give the dish a more vibrant flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
While it's ideal to let the dish sit overnight for the flavors to meld, if you're short on time, you can bake it right away. However, allowing it to rest helps the bread absorb the liquids, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Bake it fresh for best results when serving.
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).