Marjorie Preston'S Crabmeat Casserole
A creamy crabmeat casserole topped with buttery bread crumbs, featuring rich cheese and delicate crab flavor, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a cream sauce with butter, flour, and milk in the top of a double boiler.
- Add finely chopped onion, grated cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
- Gently fold in the crabmeat, broken into pieces.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Cover with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F until the sauce bubbles through, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using half-and-half instead of milk in the cream sauce. You can also substitute the cheese with a sharper variety like aged cheddar for added depth. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Ensure the crabmeat is well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This crabmeat casserole is best served warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or a side of rice. Browse more seafood recipes for additional ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover crabmeat casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marjorie Preston'S Crabmeat Casserole contains roughly 793 calories, with 18g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value) and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1166mg per serving (51% 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 fresh crab instead of canned crabmeat?
Yes, using fresh crab will enhance the dish's flavor. Just ensure it is cooked and picked clean before folding it into the sauce. Adjust the seasoning to balance the freshness of the crab.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes, until it is heated through.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
A mild cheese like Monterey Jack or a sharp cheese like cheddar can both work well. If you enjoy a more sophisticated flavor, try Gruyère or a blend of cheeses for complexity. Just ensure it melts well for a creamy texture.
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).