New Year'S Crabmeat Casserole
A rich and cheesy crab casserole with green peppers and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for festive occasions and seafood lovers seeking comfort and flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook green pepper in butter until tender.
- Stir in flour.
- Combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and pepper, then gradually stir into the flour mixture.
- Cook until smooth and thickened, stirring constantly.
- Add 1 3/4 cups of grated Cheddar cheese and crabmeat, then blend.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the mixture before baking. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked crabmeat or even substitute with canned tuna for a different flavor. For a healthier option, you can use low-fat cheese and cream of mushroom soup. Always stir gently to keep the crabmeat intact.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Crabmeat Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside garlic bread. This dish also fits well into a festive spread, complementing other seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the casserole for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Year'S Crabmeat Casserole contains roughly 682 calories, with 19g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (126% of the Daily Value), iron (88% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 crabmeat instead of canned or frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat will elevate the dish with its superior flavor and texture. Just ensure it's properly cooked and flaked before adding it to the casserole mixture.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a simple homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and a bit of broth. Alternatively, creamy sauces like Alfredo or a cheese sauce can work in a pinch.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).