Crabmeat Mornay
Crabmeat Mornay is a rich, creamy dish combining tender crabmeat with a cheesy, savory sauce flavored with onions, parsley, and optional sherry. Perfect for elegant gatherings or special occasions, it pairs beautifully with toast, crackers, or pastry shells, offering a delightful seafood experience with luscious cheese notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy pot and sauté onions and parsley.
- Blend in flour, half and half, and grated Swiss cheese until the cheese is melted.
- Add remaining ingredients and gently fold in crabmeat.
- Serve in a chafing dish with Melba toast, in patty shells, or warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, whisk the half and half gradually into the flour mixture to prevent lumps. If you don't have Swiss cheese, Gruyère or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella can work well. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat half and half. To elevate the dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, which complements seafood recipes beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Crabmeat Mornay in a chafing dish for a buffet-style gathering or in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Pair it with Melba toast, patty shells, or warm crackers for a delightful crunch. This dish also makes a great appetizer or main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, try serving with Long Island Clam Spread for a seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Crabmeat Mornay in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery. If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a little more half and half to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat Mornay contains roughly 274 calories, with 23g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (180% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), and potassium (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. At about 274 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, canned crabmeat is a convenient option and can save time. Just ensure you drain it well and check for any shell pieces before adding it to the dish. Fresh crabmeat will provide a better flavor and texture, but canned works effectively for a quick meal.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you don't have half and half, you can easily substitute it with a mixture of milk and heavy cream. Use equal parts of each to achieve a similar richness. Alternatively, for a lighter option, you could use whole milk with a bit of extra butter to mimic the creaminess.
Is it possible to make Crabmeat Mornay ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for a day. Just be sure to cover it well. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven until bubbly. This makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prep.
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).