Crabmeat In Shells
Crabmeat in shells offers a rich, creamy seafood flavor with buttery and parsley notes, perfect for special occasions or elegant appetizers that impress guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Flake crabmeat and add to the sauce along with parsley and chopped eggs. Blend thoroughly.
- Fill greased crab shells with the mixture.
- Sprinkle buttered bread crumbs on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while cooking. If you don't have crabmeat, cooked shrimp or lobster can be a delicious substitute. For a lighter option, use low-fat margarine or butter. Remember to keep stirring the sauce to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crabmeat shells as a delightful appetizer or main dish. They pair beautifully with a crisp garden salad or a side of steamed vegetables. For a more filling meal, consider serving them alongside rice or a light pasta dish. Browse more American recipes for additional seafood pairings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the crabmeat filled shells in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crabmeat rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat In Shells contains roughly 710 calories, with 17g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (85% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1092mg per serving (47% 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 instead of cooked crabmeat?
Yes, fresh crab can be used, but ensure it is cooked and flaked before adding it to the sauce. This will enhance the flavor and give a delightful texture to the dish.
What can I do if I don't have crab shells?
If crab shells are unavailable, you can bake the crabmeat mixture in a casserole dish. Just adjust the baking time to ensure it heats through evenly, typically about 20-25 minutes.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and fill the shells a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for a fresh, hot dish.
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).