Spinach And Crab Casserole
A rich and creamy spinach and crab casserole featuring sharp cheese, aromatic onion, and a hint of sherry, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add lemon juice to crab meat and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheese, minced onion, tomato paste, sour cream, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and dry sherry.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the crab meat and mix thoroughly.
- Add cooked and drained spinach to the mixture and stir well.
- Turn the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute cream cheese for part of the sour cream. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce. Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole watery. For a twist, consider adding some diced bell peppers or substituting fresh crab for canned, which can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light vegetable dish or roasted asparagus. A glass of white wine complements the flavors nicely, making it a great choice for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it's hot throughout. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Crab Casserole contains roughly 307 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% 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 spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used in this recipe. You will need about 10 ounces of fresh spinach, which should be cooked down and drained before mixing it into the casserole. This can add a fresher taste and a vibrant color to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the crab meat?
If you're looking for a substitute, cooked shrimp or even flaked tuna can work well, though the flavor will change. You could also try a vegetarian option like chickpeas or mushrooms for a different twist if seafood is not preferred.
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).