Crab Casserole Recipe

This Crab Casserole Recipe is a creamy, savory, and comforting seafood dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Loaded with tender crab meat, melty cheese, and a rich blend of seasonings, it bakes into a bubbly, golden casserole that’s sure to impress. Whether served as a main course, side dish, or even a dip, this crab casserole brings coastal flavor to your table in a hearty, satisfying way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crab casserole is indulgent yet easy to make. It’s a fantastic way to showcase crab meat in a warm, cheesy, oven-baked dish that requires minimal prep. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday dinner, potluck, or seafood night at home, this dish delivers restaurant-worthy taste without complicated steps. It’s rich, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lump crab meat (cooked and picked over for shells)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Green onions (chopped)
• Celery (finely diced)
• Lemon juice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Old Bay seasoning or seafood seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Butter (optional, for greasing or topping)
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings until smooth.
3. Fold in the crab meat, green onions, celery, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Add breadcrumbs if desired for a crispy topping.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with a golden top.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Low-carb: Skip the breadcrumbs or use a low-carb alternative.
• Cheese options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a seafood-friendly blend.
• Add-ins: Mix in chopped spinach, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.
• Mini casseroles: Bake in individual ramekins for personal-sized servings.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes. Avoid freezing, as the creamy ingredients may separate and change texture.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab in this recipe?

Yes, imitation crab can be used if real crab isn’t available, though the flavor and texture will differ.

What type of crab meat works best?

Lump or backfin crab meat is ideal for this casserole due to its tenderness and mild flavor.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free ones.

Is this crab casserole good as a dip?

Yes! Serve it with crackers or crostini for a hot, cheesy crab dip.

Can I add pasta to make it a full meal?

Absolutely. Add cooked pasta to the mixture before baking for a crab pasta bake.

Do I need to cook the crab meat before using it?

If using pre-cooked crab meat, no additional cooking is needed before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based ingredients which may separate upon thawing.

What sides go well with crab casserole?

A crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread pair well with this rich dish.

How do I keep the casserole from being watery?

Drain the crab meat well and don’t overmix the creamy ingredients to avoid excess moisture.

Conclusion

This Crab Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—yet incredibly simple to prepare. Whether served at a special dinner or brought to a potluck, this dish is always a standout. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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