Simple Baked Crab
A savory baked crab dish featuring fresh crabmeat combined with vegetables and a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce, topped with buttery bread crumbs. This comforting casserole is perfect for seafood lovers and makes an elegant appetizer or main course, offering rich flavors and a delightful crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the chopped green pepper, chopped onion, chopped celery, crabmeat, Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise in a casserole dish.
- Mix the bread crumbs and melted butter together and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, a splash of soy sauce or a bit of hot sauce can work well. To enhance flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or some Old Bay seasoning. Using fresh crabmeat will yield the best flavor, but canned crab works in a pinch. Serve this alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Simple Baked Crab is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a light green salad or some roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or crackers for a delightful texture contrast. For a complete seafood feast, you might also try serving it with Crab Bites(Great Appetizer) or Shrimp And Rice Rockefeller for a satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy this dish warm, as reheating in the microwave can make it soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Baked Crab contains roughly 887 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1101mg per serving (48% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, frozen crabmeat can be used, but ensure it is fully thawed and drained of excess liquid before mixing it into the casserole. Fresh crabmeat will yield the best flavor, but frozen is a convenient alternative and works well for baked dishes.
What can I serve with Simple Baked Crab?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread. For a more elaborate meal, consider serving it with a side of rice or pasta. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed as part of a seafood-themed dinner alongside other dishes like Crab Pie.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the crab mixture. Alternatively, you could serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side. Adjusting the amount of Worcestershire sauce or adding a touch of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor profile.
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).