Party Crab Bake
A creamy, cheesy crab bake with pasta, tomatoes, and green onions, perfect for entertaining or family dinners, offering rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions in a bowl.
- Place a layer of cooked macaroni in the bottom of a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Alternate layers of macaroni with the cheese mixture and crabmeat, ending with a layer of crabmeat on top.
- Arrange sliced tomatoes on top of the casserole.
- Sprinkle with salt and then top with shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese, or adding a bit more sour cream. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute some of the crabmeat with shredded cooked chicken. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavors. If you'd like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This Party Crab Bake is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as a simple mixed green salad or Grapefruit, Shrimp And Avocado Salad. Serve with crusty bread or Lemon Snack Crackers on the side for a delightful contrast in texture. For a complete meal, consider complementing it with a glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Crab Bake contains roughly 371 calories, with 19g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1812mg per serving (79% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, frozen crabmeat can be used. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the dish. This ensures the casserole doesn't become watery.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare in advance, assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese. These cheeses will melt well and add a nice creaminess to the dish, similar to other popular American recipes.
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).