Poor Man'S Crab Casserole
A budget-friendly seafood casserole featuring flaky flounder topped with seasoned stuffing and crabmeat, baked to golden perfection—perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In an ungreased 8-inch dish, place the flounder.
- Mix together crabmeat, egg, parsley, salt, lemon juice, and 2/3 cup melted butter; sprinkle this mixture on top of the fish.
- Combine 1/2 cup of the remaining stuffing mix with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Sprinkle this mixture on top of the crab and fish layer.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning to the crab mixture. If you can't find flounder, haddock is a great substitute. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free stuffing mix. Ensure the crabmeat is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole, which can impact the texture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light, crisp green salad and a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon on top for added brightness. For a heartier option, consider serving with buttered rice or a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the fish rubbery. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man'S Crab Casserole contains roughly 405 calories, with 10g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1713mg per serving (74% 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 a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute flounder with other mild white fish such as cod or tilapia. Just ensure the cooking time remains the same, as thinner fillets will cook faster.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
What kind of crabmeat should I use?
For best results, use lump crabmeat for its texture and flavor. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, imitation crabmeat works in a pinch, though it won't have the same richness as real crab.
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).