Maryland Crab Meat Au Gratin
A rich and flavorful Maryland Crab Meat Au Gratin features tender crab meat combined with a creamy white sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs for a satisfying seafood dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together crab meat, white sauce, lemon juice, and grated onion.
- Put the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs, paprika, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes.
- For best flavor, prepare 12 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the crab mixture. If you're out of white sauce, a combination of cream and a bit of flour can work as a substitute. Using fresh crab meat will enhance the dish significantly, though canned crab can be used in a pinch. For a twist, experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Maryland Crab Meat Au Gratin as a delightful main dish alongside a fresh green salad or steamed asparagus for a light complement. It pairs beautifully with Grilled Herbed Salmon for a seafood-themed meal. For a casual gathering, consider serving it with crusty bread or crackers for dipping, enhancing the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the au gratin in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring the topping remains crisp. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryland Crab Meat Au Gratin contains roughly 349 calories, with 19g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 553mg per serving (24% 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 make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients. Fresh crab meat is preferred for the best flavor and texture, but frozen can work in a pinch.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Maryland Crab Meat Au Gratin gluten-free, substitute the medium white sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as a homemade sauce using rice flour or cornstarch. Ensure that the breadcrumbs are also gluten-free, and you can use crushed gluten-free crackers as a topping.
What can I serve with crab meat au gratin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving a light salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a simple pasta dish like Tuna Cheese Elbow for a more substantial meal. A chilled white wine can also enhance the flavors beautifully.
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).