Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This crab stuffed baked potato recipe is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend treat. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that elevates a simple potato into a gourmet experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this healthy and flavorful dish, perfect for those searching for quick dinner ideas or best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Baking the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. The baking time might vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
Step 2: Preparing the Crab Filling
While the potatoes are baking, prepare the crab filling. In a medium bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, green onions, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab meat mushy.
Step 3: Assembling and Baking (Optional Second Bake)
Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before handling. Cut each potato lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork. You can optionally add a tablespoon of melted butter to each potato half for extra richness. Spoon the crab mixture evenly into the potato halves.
For an extra crispy topping, you can return the stuffed potatoes to the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned and heated through.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Garnish each stuffed baked potato with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy this easy and delicious meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the crab mixture.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Dill, chives, or paprika would all be delicious additions.
- If you don’t have lump crab meat, you can use imitation crab meat, but the flavor will be different.
- Add some shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, on top of the crab mixture before the optional second bake for extra cheesiness.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This crab stuffed baked potato recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It's a delicious dish for any occasion, showcasing the versatility of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. It's a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes, and perfect for anyone looking for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!