Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin

Crab Meat Au Gratin is a delectable dish that combines the richness of crab meat with a creamy and cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a luxurious meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both impressive and delicious.

Crab Meat Au Gratin

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

To prepare the delicious Crab Meat Au Gratin, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, green onions, fresh parsley, melted butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Gently fold in the lump crab meat, ensuring it is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Spoon the crab mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out to create an even layer.
5. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Prepare:

Crab Meat Au Gratin is a dish that can be served as an appetizer or as a main course. To prepare it as an appetizer, simply scoop the cheesy crab mixture onto small individual serving plates or into small ramekins. Serve with toasted baguette slices or crackers for dipping.

If you prefer to serve Crab Meat Au Gratin as a main course, spoon the delicious mixture over cooked rice or pasta. Add a side salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

Preparation Time:

The preparation time for this mouth-watering Crab Meat Au Gratin is approximately 15 minutes. This includes the time it takes to gather and measure the ingredients, as well as mix them together. The baking time is an additional 25-30 minutes.

Servings:

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it the perfect size for a small dinner party or a family meal.

Nutrition Facts:

While Crab Meat Au Gratin is undeniably delicious, it is also important to be aware of the nutritional content of the dish. The following information is based on a serving size of approximately 1/4 of the entire recipe:

• Calories: 307
• Total Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 773mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 17g

Tips:

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crab Meat Au Gratin turns out absolutely perfect:

1. Use high-quality lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
2. Make sure to not overmix the ingredients, as you want to keep the crab meat in large, tender chunks.
3. Serve your Crab Meat Au Gratin hot and bubbly for the best taste and presentation.
4. Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings and spices to customize the dish to your liking.
5. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use imitation crab meat instead of lump crab meat?

A: While you could technically use imitation crab meat, it will not provide the same rich flavor and texture as lump crab meat. For the best results, fresh lump crab meat is strongly recommended.

Q: Can I freeze the Crab Meat Au Gratin?

A: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture and taste may be compromised upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh.

Q: Can I substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?

A: Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe if desired. However, be aware that it may alter the taste and texture of the final dish.

Now that you have this delicious Crab Meat Au Gratin recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you are hosting a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this dish, and indulge in the rich flavor of lump crab meat. Bon appétit!