Crabmeat Au Gratin

Craving for a mouthwatering seafood dish that will wow your taste buds? Look no further! Today, I’m excited to share with you an incredible recipe for Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin. This Louisiana favorite is guaranteed to satisfy your seafood cravings and leave you wanting more.

Indulge in Deliciousness

Let’s dive right in and explore the steps to prepare this delectable dish that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, until the mixture turns slightly golden.
4. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously until smooth.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese and cheddar cheese, and stir until melted and well combined.
6. Add the garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is incorporated.
7. Gently fold in the jumbo lump crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Serve with crusty bread or crackers and enjoy the incredible flavors.

This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat for yourself. The creamy sauce combined with the succulent jumbo lump crab meat creates a harmonious flavor profile that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll appreciate the freshness and exquisite taste of this dish. The jumbo lump crab meat is the star of the show, providing a delicate and sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy sauce.

How to Prepare

Preparing this dish is easier than you might think. Begin by preheating your oven and melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until it turns golden, then gradually add the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Once the sauce is smooth, add the cheeses and stir until melted.

Next, add the minced garlic, fresh parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if desired), salt, and pepper. Stir until all the flavors are well incorporated. Be sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.

Now comes the star of the dish – the jumbo lump crab meat. Gently fold it into the sauce, being careful not to break up the delicate crab meat too much. The key is to preserve the meaty chunks, which will create a delightful texture in every bite.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and pop it into the oven. Bake until the top becomes golden and bubbly, signaling that it’s perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy. Be prepared for the aroma to fill your kitchen, teasing your senses and building up your appetite.

Serving Suggestions

This crab au gratin is best served straight out of the oven while it’s still hot and bubbling. The creamy sauce and tender crab meat pair beautifully with crusty bread or crackers. The crunch and flavor of the bread or crackers complement the creamy texture and enhance the overall experience.

You can also serve this dish as an appetizer for a dinner party or as the star of a seafood feast. Regardless of the occasion, your guests will be blown away by the incredible flavors and stunning presentation.

Preparation Time

The preparation time for this recipe is relatively quick and easy. From start to finish, you can expect to have the Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin ready to serve in around 40-45 minutes. It’s an efficient and flavorful dish that won’t keep you stuck in the kitchen all day.

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. However, you can easily double or halve the recipe to suit your needs.

Nutrition Facts

Crab au gratin is a decadent dish that’s best enjoyed in moderation. While the exact nutritional value may vary depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition facts per serving:

• Calories: 480
• Total Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 28g

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used.


Tips

If you want to take your Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin to the next level, consider these tips:

1. Use the freshest jumbo lump crab meat you can find. Fresh crab meat will have the best flavor and texture.
2. If you can’t find jumbo lump crab meat, you can substitute with other high-quality crab meat, such as lump or claw.
3. Add a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the sauce for a touch of classic seafood flavor.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as chives or green onions, for an added pop of color and freshness.
5. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the crab au gratin ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze the leftover crab au gratin?

A: While it’s not recommended to freeze dishes with cream-based sauces, you can freeze the leftover crab au gratin if desired. Be aware that the texture may slightly change upon thawing and reheating.

There you have it – an irresistible recipe for Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet seafood dish, this recipe is a surefire winner. So go ahead, indulge in the creamy richness of this Louisiana favorite and prepare to be amazed!

Source: Data provided.