Squash Crab Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender yellow squash, succulent crab meat, and melted cheese, seasoned with garlic and crab boil, baked to perfection for seafood lovers and comfort food fans.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté garlic, onions, bell pepper, and seasoning in butter until fragrant.
- Add crab meat, cooked squash, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Stir in grated cheese until melted and combined.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish and top with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or dill in the sauté. If yellow squash is unavailable, zucchini can be a great substitute. To enhance the dish, you might sprinkle a bit of Old Bay seasoning along with the crab boil. For a creamier texture, add a small amount of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a bowl of creamy potato soup or a light seafood salad to enhance your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Crab Casserole contains roughly 1474 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 155g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (284% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 canned crab meat instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat for this recipe, but be sure to drain it well and check for any shell pieces. Fresh or frozen crab will provide a superior flavor and texture, but canned is convenient and will still yield a delicious casserole.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese substitute, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely for a lighter version. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, try adding a mix of cream cheese and parmesan for a rich taste.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply replace the bread crumbs with gluten-free options such as crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. You can also skip the topping altogether for a lower carb version while still enjoying the delicious flavors of the dish.
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).