Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy crabmeat casserole is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's packed with succulent crabmeat, a rich cheese sauce, and buttery Ritz cracker topping – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels, offering a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients: You'll need these simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients
- 1 pound lump crabmeat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Ritz cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making this delicious dish is easier than you think!
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1.5-quart casserole dish.
Mix the crabmeat mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the crabmeat, mayonnaise, milk, eggs, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be gentle to avoid breaking up the crabmeat too much.
Layer and bake: Pour the crabmeat mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. In a separate small bowl, combine the Ritz cracker crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Crabmeat Casserole Success
- Quality Crabmeat Matters: Using lump crabmeat ensures a more luxurious texture and flavor. Make sure to pick through it carefully to remove any shell fragments.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the casserole. Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere or Monterey Jack would also be delicious.
Variations: Make it your own!
- Spicy Crab Casserole: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the crabmeat mixture for a little kick.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate some finely chopped vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or onions for added flavor and nutrients. Sauté them lightly before adding them to the crabmeat mixture.
- Breadcrumbs instead of Ritz: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy crabmeat casserole recipe offers a delicious and healthy meal option. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!