Deviled Crab Ramekins
Creamy crab meat combined with eggs, margarine, and spices creates a rich, flavorful appetizer perfect for seafood lovers and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crab meat and remove any cartilage.
- Hard-boil the eggs, then peel and chop them.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped eggs, melted margarine, salt, mustard, vinegar, and cayenne pepper.
- Separate the egg whites and yolks; fold in the yolks into the crab mixture.
- Fill ramekins with the crab mixture.
- Bake or broil until heated through and slightly browned on top.
- Serve hot or chilled as an appetizer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If fresh crab meat is unavailable, canned crab can work, but be sure to drain it well. You can also add a bit of Old Bay seasoning for extra depth. For a twist, try incorporating some shredded cheese or finely chopped bell peppers to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These deviled crab ramekins are perfect as a stand-alone appetizer, but they also pair beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread for a more substantial meal. Consider serving with a tangy dipping sauce or alongside other seafood recipes for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover deviled crab can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the ramekins in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Crab Ramekins contains roughly 299 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the ramekins and bake when ready to serve. This ensures flavors meld together nicely, making it even tastier.
What type of crab meat should I use?
You can use lump crab meat for a more luxurious texture, or claw meat for a more economical option. Just ensure that the crab is fresh and free from any shell fragments for the best results.
Can I freeze the deviled crab ramekins?
It's not recommended to freeze the baked ramekins as the texture may suffer upon thawing. However, you can freeze the uncooked crab mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
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).