Deviled Crab
Deviled Crab is a rich, creamy seafood dish featuring tender crab meat blended with eggs, lemon, and savory seasonings. Topped with cracker crumbs and baked to perfection, it's ideal for special occasions or a luxurious appetizer that delights seafood lovers and those seeking comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the eggs until hard-boiled.
- While hot, mash the eggs in a casserole dish with butter.
- Add the crab meat to the mixture.
- Add salt, pepper, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and canned milk.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Sprinkle cracker crumbs on top and dot with butter.
- Bake at 375°F for approximately 30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
- Be sure to pull the crab meat apart before mixing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the canned milk with heavy cream. If you're short on crab meat, you can mix in some cooked shrimp or a bit of lobster for added flavor. Remember to pull the crab meat apart gently to avoid any lumps, ensuring an even distribution in your dish. Adding a dash of hot sauce can give a nice kick, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the deviled crab alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a full meal. A side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables can complement the dish nicely. For a seafood-themed dinner, consider serving it as an appetizer before main courses like the Seafood Casserole (Microwave) or paired with a refreshing glass of lemonade.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish back in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crab rubbery. Always check for doneness before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Crab contains roughly 578 calories, with 9g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (77% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 843mg per serving (37% 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 crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen crab meat! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This will help maintain the right consistency and flavor in your deviled crab.
What can I substitute for canned milk?
If you don't have canned milk, you can use whole milk or a mixture of milk and cream to achieve a similar richness. Alternatively, unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free version, but adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce into the mixture before baking. Alternatively, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika on top before serving to enhance both the flavor and presentation.
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).