Crab Casserole Recipe

Warm, cheesy, and rich with seafood flavor, this Crab Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that brings a taste of the coast to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a cozy dinner for a weeknight, this easy crab casserole comes together quickly and delivers impressive flavor. Imitation crab meat is the star of the show here—it’s budget-friendly, accessible, and has a mild taste that works beautifully in creamy casseroles.

This dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a light salad and can double as a side or main course. The mixture of cream cheese, Swiss, and cheddar creates a decadent, creamy base with a melty, golden topping. The addition of green onions and seasonings like garlic powder and mustard powder cuts through the richness, adding depth and balance.

It’s a satisfying seafood casserole that doesn’t require a complicated list of ingredients or advanced cooking skills. Simply mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy. Whether you’re new to seafood dishes or a seasoned cook looking for something cozy and savory, this Crab Casserole will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s ideal for casual weeknights and indulgent enough for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy to Prepare

With minimal prep and a simple baking process, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.

Budget-Friendly

Imitation crab is affordable and accessible, offering seafood flavor without the high cost.

Creamy and Cheesy

Three types of cheese come together to create a luscious, creamy texture that’s irresistibly good.

Great for Entertaining

This dish is elegant enough to serve at gatherings and potlucks yet casual enough for everyday meals.

Comfort Food Favorite

Warm, rich, and full of savory flavor, it satisfies all your cozy meal cravings.

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Ingredients

• Imitation crab meat, chopped or shredded
• Green onions
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Cream cheese, softened
• Shredded Swiss cheese
• Garlic powder
• Mustard powder
• Salt
• Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Variations

• Use Real Crab Meat: If you prefer a more authentic seafood flavor, substitute real lump crab meat for imitation.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in chopped bell peppers, celery, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
• Try Different Cheeses: Substitute Swiss with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a new flavor profile.
• Make it Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or spoon into hollowed-out bell peppers and bake.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped imitation crab, green onions, mayonnaise, sour cream, and softened cream cheese.

Step 3

Add the shredded Swiss cheese, garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4

Transfer the crab mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the mixture.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Don’t overbake; the casserole should be bubbly but not dry.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before baking.
• Let it rest after baking for cleaner slices and better texture.

How to Serve

This crab casserole is versatile and can be served in several ways:

• As a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables
• Spooned over toasted crusty bread or garlic toast
• As a dip with crackers or tortilla chips
• Stuffed into baked potatoes or served in pastry shells for an elevated presentation

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover crab casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation?

Yes, real crab meat can be used for a more authentic flavor, though it will increase the cost.

What can I serve with crab casserole?

It pairs well with salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or rice.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this casserole good for a potluck?

Absolutely, it’s easy to transport and holds up well at room temperature.

Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, adding cooked pasta turns it into a hearty seafood pasta bake.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Ensure all ingredients, especially the imitation crab and seasonings, are gluten-free. Serve without bread or with gluten-free options.

How spicy is this dish?

As written, it’s not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Can I substitute any of the cheeses?

Yes, feel free to use cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan to suit your taste.

What’s the best baking dish to use?

A 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish works best for even cooking and cheese browning.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

This recipe is best baked for optimal texture, but a slow cooker can work if you keep it on low heat and monitor the consistency.

Conclusion

This Crab Casserole is a rich, savory, and satisfying dish that brings all the comforting flavors of a seafood bake to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or an indulgent side, it’s sure to impress. The creamy, cheesy blend paired with the delicate flavor of crab makes this a standout recipe perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to elegant gatherings. Keep it in your rotation for an easy meal that delivers big flavor.

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