This Crab Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy dish packed with the delicate flavor of crab. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving seafood, this casserole is a satisfying comfort food that’s easy to prepare and always a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Crab Casserole
- Creamy and Rich: A blend of cheeses and cream brings a comforting richness.
- Elegant Flavor: Crab meat adds a touch of sophistication to the dish.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and it’s ready to bake!
Ingredients for Crab Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this deliciously comforting casserole:
- 1 lb crab meat (fresh, lump, or canned, drained and picked over)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or a pinch more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: For baking the casserole.
- Spatula: For spreading the mixture evenly.
How to Make Crab Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Casserole Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
- Add the crab meat, green onions, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently fold everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Add to Baking Dish
- Spread the crab mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter, stirring until well-coated.
- Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crab casserole with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also great as a side dish for seafood dinners or holiday gatherings.
Tips for the Best Crab Casserole
- Choose Good-Quality Crab: Fresh lump crab meat is ideal, but canned crab works well too.
- Customize the Topping: For a crunchier topping, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers.
- Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use imitation crab?
A: Yes, imitation crab works as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
Q3: Can I add other seafood to this casserole?
A: Yes! Adding shrimp or scallops can make the casserole even heartier and add flavor.
A Rich, Seafood-Packed Casserole You’ll Love!
This Crab Casserole is rich, comforting, and a little indulgent—a perfect dish for any special meal. Whether for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this casserole will satisfy every seafood lover at the table!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite, and don’t forget to share this crowd-pleaser with loved ones!
