Best Crab Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Best Crab Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a blend of crab, Swiss cheese, and a hint of garlic, it offers rich flavors and a comforting texture that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (freshly shredded for best melt)
• 1/2 large onion (finely diced)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature)
• 1 lb imitation crab meat (or real crab for a richer flavor)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s preferred for its creamy texture)
• 1 tsp dried parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, finely diced onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix until creamy and well blended.
3. Step 3: Pour the crab mixture into a casserole dish and spread it evenly with a spatula for consistent cooking.
4. Step 4: (Optional) Sprinkle an extra layer of shredded Swiss cheese on top for added cheesy flavor.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer taste, substitute imitation crab with fresh or lump crab meat.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a subtle kick.
• Use a combination of Gruyère and Swiss cheese for a deeper cheese flavor.
• Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy crust.

Storage

Store leftover crab casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, or use a microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the casserole.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh crab instead of imitation crab?

Yes, fresh crab meat can be used for a more authentic and richer flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture to keep the casserole from being watery.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the mixture and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it and refrigerate, then bake it right before serving, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time if needed.

Best Crab Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 135 reviews

This Best Crab Casserole Recipe is a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring imitation crab meat combined with Swiss cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and a blend of seasonings. It’s an easy-to-make comfort food perfect for seafood lovers looking for a rich and flavorful casserole that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Crab Mixture

• 1 lb imitation crab meat (or real crab for a richer flavor)
• 1/2 large onion (finely diced)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably Hellmann’s for its creamy texture)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature)
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (freshly shredded for best melt)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley

Optional Topping

• Additional shredded Swiss cheese for extra cheese layer (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that the oven reaches the ideal temperature for even baking when the casserole is ready to go in.
2. Prepare the Crab Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the imitation crab meat, finely diced onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, softened cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a creamy, uniform mixture.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the creamy crab mixture into a casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, creating a smooth, level layer to ensure consistent cooking throughout the dish.
4. Optional Extra Cheese Layer: If you desire extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle an additional layer of shredded Swiss cheese over the top of the crab mixture before baking. This adds a delicious golden, melted cheese crust.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your rich, cheesy crab casserole!

Notes

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute imitation crab with real crab meat.
• Freshly shredding the Swiss cheese improves the melting quality and texture.
• You can add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor if desired.
• Letting the casserole cool slightly after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
• This casserole pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables.

Keywords: crab casserole, cheesy crab casserole, baked crab recipe, seafood casserole, easy crab dish, creamy crab bake