Crawfish Imperial
Crawfish Imperial is a savory seafood dish bursting with the flavors of crawfish, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all enriched with cheesy goodness. Perfect for gatherings, it combines spicy, creamy, and hearty elements, making it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and those seeking comforting Southern cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, garlic, and chopped celery in about 1/2 cup of butter-flavored Crisco until tender.
- Add about 1/4 cup of flour to the skillet to thicken the mixture.
- Add parsley flakes, canned Ro-Tel tomatoes, canned stewed tomatoes, and cooked crawfish to the skillet.
- Lower the heat and cook, covered, for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- When ready to serve, stir in Cheez Whiz.
- Serve hot over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using shrimp or crab in addition to crawfish. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Fresh parsley can replace parsley flakes for a more vibrant taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Crawfish Imperial over fluffy white rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh Salad Nicoise for a balanced dinner. For additional sides, consider steamed vegetables or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be made ahead of time.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crawfish Imperial contains roughly 383 calories, with 10g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% 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 frozen crawfish instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen crawfish can be used as a convenient alternative. Just ensure they are thawed properly before adding them to the dish. The flavor will still be great, and it will save you time in preparation.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a different cheese, try using cream cheese mixed with shredded cheddar for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, a homemade cheese sauce can also work well, adding a personalized touch to your Crawfish Imperial.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can vary depending on the type of Ro-Tel tomatoes you use. If you want it milder, opt for the original blend, while the hot variety will add more heat. Adjust the amount of added spices to suit your palate.
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).