Seafood Broccoli Divan
A creamy seafood and broccoli dish featuring surimi crab flakes and sharp Cheddar, baked to perfection—ideal for quick weeknight dinners or satisfying family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place broccoli spears, with flowerets toward the outside edge, in a 12 x 8-inch baking dish.
- Arrange crab down the center of the broccoli.
- Combine milk, sharp Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, dry mustard, and dried basil leaves in a small saucepan; heat on medium for 5 minutes, stirring often until cheeses are melted.
- Pour the sauce over the crab and broccoli.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you can't find surimi crab, real crab meat or shrimp can be great substitutes. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder can enhance the flavor profile. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere for a unique twist. This dish can be made ahead and frozen before baking for a quick meal later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Seafood Broccoli Divan with a light side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine, enhancing the seafood flavors. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside baked potatoes or a rice pilaf. It also complements well with other seafood recipes like Woodward House Crab.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Broccoli Divan contains roughly 582 calories, with 30g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1344mg per serving (58% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes before arranging it in the baking dish to ensure it's tender and cooks evenly in the oven.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will give you a similar texture while slightly altering the flavor.
Can I add more seafood to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add shrimp, scallops, or even lobster for a more decadent dish. Just ensure that the total seafood weight is similar to the original recipe to maintain the balance of flavors.
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).