Get ready to dive into a world of flavors with these 19 creamy crab casserole delights that will satisfy your seafood cravings! As a seafood lover, you know that there’s nothing quite like the sweet and savory taste of fresh crab. But let’s face it – sometimes cooking can be overwhelming, especially when trying to come up with new and exciting dishes.
That’s why we’ve curated this list of mouth-watering recipes that combine the rich flavor of crab with the comfort of a warm casserole. From classic Maryland-style casseroles to spicy Cajun twists, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion centerpiece, these creamy crab casseroles are sure to impress.
In the following pages, we’ll explore each of these 19 recipes in detail, including step-by-step instructions and mouth-watering photos. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in some serious seafood goodness!
Creamy Crab and Corn Casserole
A rich and satisfying side dish perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This creamy casserole combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavor of crab meat, all wrapped up in a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix soup, milk, cheese, parsley, paprika, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
3. Add crab meat and corn kernels; stir until combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with crushed crackers and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crab and Artichoke Bake
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, savory dish that combines the sweetness of artichokes with the richness of crab meat. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, crab meat, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Crab and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines the sweetness of crab with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a warm, savory casserole. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (6 oz) jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in crab meat, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Old Bay Crab Casserole
A classic coastal casserole that combines the bold flavors of Old Bay seasoning with succulent crab meat, creamy sauce, and tender pasta. Perfect for a comforting seafood dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in crab meat, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Imperial Casserole
This creamy casserole combines succulent crab meat with a rich and buttery sauce, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, cheddar cheese, crab meat, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lump Crab and Spinach Bake
Savor the rich flavors of lump crab meat and spinach in this easy-to-make bake, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe combines the freshness of spinach with the indulgent taste of crab, all wrapped up in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lump crab meat
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté spinach with 1 tablespoon olive oil until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, mix crab meat, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
4. Add the cooked spinach to the crab mixture and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland-Style Crab Casserole
A classic Coastal Maryland dish that combines fresh crab meat with pasta, cream, and spices to create a rich and flavorful casserole perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 8 oz. macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in crab meat, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the crab mixture; stir well.
6. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab and Pasta Alfredo Casserole
A decadent twist on the classic pasta dish, this casserole combines succulent crab meat with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a comforting pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine crab meat and Alfredo sauce. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, crab mixture, and cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy!
Spicy Cajun Crab Casserole
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this Spicy Cajun Crab Casserole, a rich and indulgent dish perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (white and green parts)
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and whole wheat breadcrumbs.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the top and pour in heavy cream.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Shells
A decadent twist on classic stuffed shells, this recipe combines the richness of crab with the creaminess of cream cheese for a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the crab mixture, placing them in a 9×13 inch baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Crab Casserole
A rich and indulgent seafood casserole that combines the flavors of garlic butter, succulent crab meat, and tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in crab meat, white wine (if using), and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bake
This seafood bake combines succulent crab meat and plump shrimp with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, shrimp, butter, white wine, chicken broth, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon zest.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through and flaky.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crab Mac and Cheese Casserole
A creamy, indulgent twist on a classic comfort food, this Crab Mac and Cheese Casserole combines the rich flavors of macaroni, cheese, and succulent crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 can (6 ounces) lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
4. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni, crab meat, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jalapeño Crab Cornbread Casserole
Elevate your cornbread game with this creamy, spicy, and savory casserole featuring fresh crab meat and jalapeños. Perfect for a unique dinner party or game day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh lump crab meat
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Fold in crab meat, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crab and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of fresh crab meat with nutty wild rice, creamy cheese, and savory spices. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup fresh crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
6. Layer the crab mixture, then the wild rice mixture in the prepared dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab-Stuffed Mushroom Casserole
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent crab-stuffed mushroom casserole, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. Fresh mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and cheese, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, breadcrumbs, cheese, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms in a baking dish and drizzle with heavy cream.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Crab Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the sweetness of crab with the brightness of lemon and herbs, perfect for a seafood-loving dinner party. With its easy-to-make preparation and impressive presentation, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups cooked pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add crab meat, cooked pasta, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low-Carb Crab and Cauliflower Bake
A delicious and healthy twist on a seafood classic, this recipe combines succulent crab meat with the subtle flavor of cauliflower in a creamy, low-carb bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together cauliflower florets, crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab and Swiss Cheese Casserole
This rich and creamy casserole combines the flavors of fresh crab, melted Swiss cheese, and a hint of spices. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add melted butter and stir until smooth.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Arrange crab mixture in the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with Swiss cheese.
7. Pour flour mixture over the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a seafood lover’s paradise with these 19 creamy crab casserole delights! From classic combinations like Creamy Crab and Corn Casserole to innovative twists like Jalapeño Crab Cornbread Casserole, there’s something for everyone. Discover mouthwatering dishes that combine succulent crab meat with pasta, rice, cheese, and more. Whether you’re a Maryland native or just a seafood enthusiast, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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