Deviled Crab Mexicana
Creamy, flavorful deviled crab with a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and served as a casserole or in crab shells for a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter and sauté chopped onion.
- Add tomato sauce, chili powder, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, and garlic powder.
- Let the mixture come to a boil.
- Pour the sauce over cracker crumbs and corn bread crumbs; toss lightly.
- Add crabmeat and transfer to crab shells or a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using crushed tortilla chips instead of cracker crumbs for added crunch and flavor. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half of the crabmeat with shredded zucchini. Ensure the onion is finely chopped for even sautéing, and you can adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Deviled Crab Mexicana in the crab shells for an impressive presentation. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A side of garlic bread complements the dish nicely, and consider serving with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. This dish also pairs beautifully with Tortellini And Crabmeat Salad for a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crabmeat rubbery; baking ensures a better texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Crab Mexicana contains roughly 108 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1488mg per serving (65% 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 crabmeat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen crabmeat! Just ensure it is fully thawed and drained before mixing it into the dish. This will help maintain the right texture and flavor without excess moisture.
What can I substitute for oleo?
If you don't have oleo, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or margarine. Both options will work well in sautéing the onions and adding richness to the dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños to the sauce. A few extra dashes of Tabasco sauce will also enhance the spiciness without overpowering the dish.
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).