Deviled Crab In Shell
Delicious in-shell crab dish with a flavorful mixture of mustard, brandy, and spices, topped with bread crumbs and baked to perfection, perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, sauté the finely chopped green pepper.
- Sauté the chopped onion in butter for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons brandy, 1 tablespoon dry mustard, 1 tablespoon prepared mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the white sauce.
- Stir in the crab meat and bread crumbs.
- Heat over low heat and stir gently.
- Spoon the mixture into crab shells.
- Sprinkle tops with bread crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Brown the tops under the broiler for a few minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or Old Bay seasoning to the mixture. If you're out of crab meat, imitation crab can be used as a substitute, although the texture will differ. Ensure the green pepper and onion are finely chopped for even cooking and better flavor distribution. Experiment with different types of seafood by incorporating shrimp for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve deviled crab in shell as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering. Pair it with a light green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a seafood-themed dinner, consider complementing it with Baked Barbecued Shrimp or a refreshing Neptune Pasta Salad. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, makes an excellent drink pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover deviled crab in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the crab mixture in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crab rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Crab In Shell contains roughly 563 calories, with 17g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2699mg per serving (117% 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 prepare the deviled crab mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture a day in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and fill the crab shells just before baking. This will save time on the day of your gathering and allow the flavors to meld together.
What can I use if I don't have crab shells?
If crab shells are unavailable, you can use small ramekins or oven-safe dishes to hold the mixture. This alternative works well for individual servings and still allows you to bake and serve the deviled crab attractively.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
While traditional deviled crab uses crab meat, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting the crab with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and artichoke hearts. This keeps the dish hearty while still mimicking the texture of crab.
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).