Curried Crabmeat, Au Gratin(A George Rector Recipe)
A rich, flavorful dish featuring tender crabmeat infused with curry powder, topped with melted Swiss cheese, perfect for elegant appetizers or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick over crabmeat to remove any tiny bones or bits of shell.
- Dissolve curry powder in a little milk or cream and add to 1 cup hot white sauce.
- Add crabmeat, mixing it gently so as not to break the crab flakes.
- Transfer the crabmeat mixture to individual au gratin dishes or scallop shells.
- Top with grated Swiss cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can use heavy cream instead of milk. If you're short on Swiss cheese, Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar can work well. Be sure to gently fold the crabmeat into the sauce to keep the delicate flakes intact. Additionally, taste the mixture before baking; you may want to adjust the curry powder according to your preference. This dish can be served as a sophisticated appetizer or a main course alongside a crisp salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Curried Crabmeat Au Gratin hot and bubbly, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with a light green salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For an elegant dinner, consider serving it alongside a glass of white wine. For more seafood inspiration, browse more seafood recipes that highlight the flavors of the ocean.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Curried Crabmeat Au Gratin should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crabmeat tough. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of cream or milk before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Crabmeat, Au Gratin(A George Rector Recipe) contains roughly 481 calories, with 24g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (218% of the Daily Value), iron (126% of the Daily Value), and calcium (55% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 61g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 can be used in this recipe; just make sure to drain it well and pick through it for any shell pieces. Fresh crabmeat offers better flavor and texture, but canned is a convenient alternative that works in a pinch.
What can I substitute for white sauce?
If you're short on time, a store-bought cheese sauce can be a quick substitute for the white sauce. Alternatively, you can make a simple béchamel with butter, flour, and milk, then stir in some shredded cheese for a homemade version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crabmeat mixture ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, transfer it to the au gratin dishes, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly. This makes it a great option for entertaining.
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).