Are you looking for a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple dish to impress your guests? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy lump crab meat casserole! This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner. It’s one of those easy recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but requires minimal effort. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade cooking with this incredible dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for topping
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 1.5-quart casserole dish. Finely chop the onion.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, eggs, onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab meat tough.
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Bread Crumb Topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix well to ensure the crumbs are evenly coated.
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Assemble & Bake: Pour the crab meat mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture evenly over the top.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly, and the center is set.
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Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Lump Crab Meat Casserole:
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Quality Crab Meat Matters: Use the best quality lump crab meat you can find for optimal flavor. Look for crab meat that is moist and has a delicate, sweet flavor.
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Don't Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients together. Overmixing can result in a tough casserole.
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Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Some people prefer more Old Bay seasoning, while others might prefer less.
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Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Variations:
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Spicy Crab Casserole: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the crab mixture for a spicier kick.
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Cheese Lover's Delight: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese to the crab mixture for extra cheesy goodness.
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Vegetable Medley: Incorporate some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus into the casserole for added nutrients and flavor. This makes for a great healthy meal option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This lump crab meat casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a delicious dish perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a special dinner. The combination of sweet crab meat, creamy sauce, and crunchy bread crumbs creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Try this easy recipe today and experience the joy of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and incredibly tasty! Enjoy this best recipe and share the deliciousness!