Easy Crab Imperial
Crab Imperial is a rich, creamy seafood dish featuring tender crabmeat in a savory sauce, topped with paprika, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove all cartilage from crab meat.
- In a medium-sized pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter.
- Mix in flour, then slowly add milk, stirring constantly to keep free of lumps.
- Cook, stirring over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
- Mix in instant minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and bread cubes.
- Cool the mixture.
- Fold in mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- In another pan, heat 2 tablespoons butter until lightly browned.
- Add crabmeat and toss lightly.
- Combine crab mixture with sauce mixture.
- Put the mixture in individual shells or a greased 1-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle paprika over the top.
- Bake at 450°F until hot, bubbly, and lightly browned on top, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, substitute half-and-half for the milk. If you're short on time, pre-packaged crabmeat works just as well. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the mixture. Remember to remove all cartilage from the crab meat for the best eating experience. This dish can also be made ahead and chilled before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crab Imperial in individual shells for an elegant presentation. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with Scalloped Corn And Shrimp as a side. A chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid overheating as it can dry out the crab meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Crab Imperial contains roughly 275 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1967mg per serving (86% 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, frozen crab meat can be used, but ensure it's fully thawed and well-drained before use. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish. Just remember to check for any remaining cartilage after thawing.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Crab Imperial gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free bread for the cubed pieces. This will keep the dish consistent in texture without compromising the flavor.
What can I serve with Crab Imperial?
Crab Imperial pairs well with light sides such as a fresh garden salad or roasted asparagus. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a potato dish or warm bread rolls. These sides will complement the flavors 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).