Deviled Crabs
Creamy, flavorful deviled crab filling with crabmeat, seasoned with lemon, Worcestershire, and parsley, baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping—perfect for seafood lovers and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onion in 3 tablespoons melted butter until softened.
- Blend in flour and cook briefly.
- Gradually add milk, cooking until the mixture thickens while stirring constantly.
- Add salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice to the sauce.
- Mix a small amount of hot sauce into the beaten egg, then add the egg to the sauce, stirring well.
- Stir in chopped parsley and flaked crabmeat.
- Place the mixture into well-greased shells or ramekins.
- Combine bread crumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle on top of the crab mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the crab mixture. If you don't have crabmeat, shrimp or lobster can be used as substitutes. Using fresh herbs like dill or chives can elevate the taste. Ensure the mixture is not too dry; adding a bit more milk can help achieve the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve deviled crabs hot from the oven, garnished with extra parsley for a fresh touch. Pair them with a crisp green salad or serve alongside a classic Macaroni And Shrimp Salad for a delightful meal. They also make a great appetizer alongside a chilled white wine or a light beer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover deviled crabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the filling rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Crabs contains roughly 218 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1567mg per serving (68% 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 the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then fill the shells or ramekins just before baking. This makes for an easy, quick meal when you're ready to serve.
What type of crabmeat should I use?
You can use lump crabmeat for a gourmet touch, or backfin crabmeat for a more economical option. Canned crabmeat is also acceptable if fresh isn't available, but ensure to drain it well.
Can I freeze deviled crabs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked crab mixture in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before filling the shells and baking. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).