Louisiana Crabmeat Au Gratin(Great Dip!)
A rich, creamy crabmeat au gratin featuring a savory white sauce, sherry, and cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for seafood lovers and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, make a white sauce with the butter, flour, and milk.
- Add the chicken bouillon and well-beaten egg to the sauce.
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in the sherry, Tabasco, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
- Add the crabmeat to the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole or 6 ramekins.
- Sprinkle the top with cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Chill in refrigerator overnight to let spices set in, then reheat before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a deeper flavor, substitute white wine for the sherry. To add a bit of heat, increase the Tabasco to your liking. Ensure the crabmeat is well-drained and flaked for even distribution throughout the dish. This dip can be served in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your appetizer lineup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Louisiana Crabmeat Au Gratin warm with sliced baguette, tortilla chips, or crackers for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a light salad, like a Shoe String Chicken Salad, to balance the richness of the dip. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Puree Cream Of Carrot Soup for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, but be careful not to overheat to preserve the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louisiana Crabmeat Au Gratin(Great Dip!) contains roughly 238 calories, with 11g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2283mg per serving (99% 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 a different type of seafood in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lump crabmeat with shrimp, lobster, or even a mix of your favorite seafood. Just ensure that the seafood is cooked and well-drained before adding it to the sauce for the best flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to chill the dip overnight?
Chilling the dip overnight allows the flavors to meld and intensify, but it is not strictly necessary. If you're short on time, you can serve it right after baking. However, for optimal taste, refrigeration is recommended.
What cheese should I use for topping?
A blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese works wonderfully for topping, providing a nice balance of flavor and melt. You can also use mozzarella for a milder taste or experiment with your favorite cheese to customize the dish to your liking.
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).