Imperial Crabs
Imperial Crabs feature tender crabmeat combined with a flavorful butter and vegetable mixture, baked under a crispy buttered crumb topping. Perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer butter, onion, green pepper, and parsley until vegetables are tender.
- Put crabmeat in a bowl.
- Add the simmered vegetables and all other ingredients to the crabmeat.
- Gently mix the ingredients together.
- Fill cleaned crab shells with the mixture.
- Cover with buttered crumbs.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 450°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or Old Bay seasoning to the mixture. If fresh crabmeat is unavailable, canned crabmeat can be used, but ensure it's well-drained. You can also substitute green pepper with chopped celery for a different crunch. Adjust the seasoning to your taste if you prefer a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
These Imperial Crabs make a striking centerpiece for a seafood feast. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the buttery goodness. For a complete meal, pair with a light white wine or a refreshing lemon-based cocktail. They also complement dishes like Cajun Barbecue Shrimp beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Imperial Crabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the crabs in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the crabmeat rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Imperial Crabs contains roughly 136 calories, with 5g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1977mg 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 crabmeat instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen crabmeat can be used as a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the mixture. This will help maintain the dish's texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Imperial Crabs gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly Worcestershire sauce, are also gluten-free.
What can I serve with Imperial Crabs?
Imperial Crabs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a light coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a zesty potato salad. For a more filling option, they can be accompanied by Any Meat Casserole for a hearty meal.
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).