Crabmeat Souffle
A creamy crabmeat soufflé layered with bread and cheese, baked until golden; ideal for seafood lovers seeking a comforting, elegant dish perfect for brunch or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 6 slices of bread in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer slices of cheese on top of the bread, spread with crabmeat, and sprinkle with chopped onion.
- Beat eggs, milk, salt, and pepper together until well combined.
- Place the remaining 6 slices of bread on top of the crabmeat mixture, like a sandwich.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread and crabmeat.
- Ensure the bread is thoroughly moistened with the mixture.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours or more.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes until browned and puffy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, use day-old bread; it absorbs the egg mixture better. You can substitute the crabmeat with shredded cooked chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Adding a dash of hot sauce or some fresh herbs like dill can enhance the flavor. This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and chilled overnight for convenient serving, similar to a Cheese 'Souffle' Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crabmeat souffle warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. Consider offering a light dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon for added zest. This dish makes for an impressive brunch or a delightful appetizer at gatherings, just like other popular American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the souffle in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will keep the texture fluffier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat Souffle contains roughly 532 calories, with 10g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 687mg per serving (30% 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 souffle ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the souffle the night before and refrigerate it. Just ensure it's well covered to prevent drying out. Bake it fresh in the morning for a delicious breakfast or brunch option that will impress your guests.
What can I substitute for crabmeat?
If you're looking for alternatives, you can use shredded cooked chicken, canned tuna, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. Each will provide a unique flavor while maintaining the structure of the dish.
How do I know when the souffle is done baking?
The souffle is ready when it is puffed up, golden brown on top, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. It should have a light and airy texture, indicating that the eggs have set properly.
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).