Mrs. Barkley'S Baked Crabmeat
Mrs. Barkley's Baked Crabmeat features tender crab combined with a rich cream sauce, seasoned with lemon, Worcestershire, parsley, and spices, baked to perfection for an elegant appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy saucepan.
- Blend in flour, then add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Season the sauce with salt, onion juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, red pepper, and celery salt.
- Add the eggs un beaten and stir gently, taking care not to boil.
- Mix the sauce well with the crabmeat.
- Transfer the mixture to a Pyrex dish.
- Cover with crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're in a pinch, canned crabmeat can be a quick substitute for fresh crab. When melting butter, be careful not to let it brown. Adding a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning can enhance the crab flavor. For a firmer topping, try using crushed crackers instead of bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked crabmeat with a side of crisp green salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Mawmaw'S Crunchy Potato Chip Salad for a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. A chilled glass of white wine complements the dish perfectly, making it a great choice for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked crabmeat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Barkley'S Baked Crabmeat contains roughly 480 calories, with 15g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (34% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 976mg per serving (42% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, frozen crabmeat can be used, but ensure it is fully thawed and drained before mixing it into the sauce. Fresh crabmeat will provide a more vibrant flavor, but thawed crab can still yield delicious results.
What can I substitute for the butter?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Just be mindful that it may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still create a tasty dish.
How do I know when the baked crabmeat is done?
The crabmeat is done when it is bubbly and the top is golden brown. A cooking time of 30 to 40 minutes at 350°F should be sufficient, but keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent overcooking.
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).