Scalloped Crab
Hearty scalloped crab with creamy milk and crunchy cracker crumbs, brightened by paprika and a squeeze of lemon—ideal for seafood lovers craving a comforting, easy-to-assemble dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange a layer of crab in a large greased casserole or 9‑inch square baking pan.
- Sprinkle generously with soda cracker crumbs, dot with butter, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Repeat layers until all crab and crumbs are used.
- Add milk to moisten the mixture thoroughly.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve with a lemon wedge to squeeze over the finished dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try mixing in some shredded cheese between the layers, or use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping. If you don't have crab meat, shrimp or lobster can be good substitutes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scalloped crab hot, garnished with lemon wedges for a zesty finish. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside rice or pasta. This dish complements well with other seafood recipes, creating a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dish rubbery; for a quick fix, consider using the microwave only if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Crab contains roughly 545 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% 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. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before layering it in the dish. This ensures the texture remains intact and flavors are concentrated.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicy seasoning blend in place of paprika. You could also serve it with a hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.
Is it okay to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the scalloped crab ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
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).