If you’re looking to impress with minimal effort, this Crab Casserole Recipe is the perfect dish to serve. Creamy, cheesy, and brimming with tender crab meat, this comforting casserole is a seafood lover’s dream. It’s rich and satisfying without being heavy, and it’s versatile enough for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or elegant brunch.

The beauty of crab casserole lies in its simplicity and luxurious flavor. Fresh or canned crab meat is folded into a creamy base with cheese, seasonings, and often a crunchy topping. The result? A golden-baked casserole that’s hearty, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s sure to be the star of the table. And since it can be made ahead of time and easily reheated, it’s ideal for entertaining or busy weeknights when you still want something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Comforting – Creamy, cheesy, and filled with tender crab meat.
Easy to Make – Comes together quickly with minimal prep.
Great for Entertaining – Feels fancy but is simple to prepare ahead.
Versatile Dish – Serve as a main, side, or even dip-style appetizer.
Customizable – Easily adapted to your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

Lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
Cream cheese
Mayonnaise
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Green onions or chives
Celery (optional for texture)
Lemon juice
Worcestershire sauce
Dijon mustard
Garlic powder
Old Bay seasoning or paprika
Salt and pepper
Bread crumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)
Butter (for topping)

Variations

Spicy Kick

Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Herb-Forward

Mix in fresh parsley, dill, or tarragon for brightness.

Lower Calorie

Use light cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of mayo and sour cream.

Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free crackers or omit the topping entirely.

Extra Cheesy

Add more shredded cheese on top or mix in a blend like Gruyère or Parmesan.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayo, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.

Step 3

Gently fold in the crab meat, green onions, celery (if using), and half the shredded cheese.

Step 4

Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 5

Top with remaining cheese and a mixture of bread crumbs tossed with melted butter.

Step 6

Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.

Step 7

Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use lump crab for best texture, but claw or imitation works in a pinch.
Don’t overmix—the crab should remain in chunks.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using pre-salted ingredients.
For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving for better consistency.

How to Serve

Serve warm as a main dish with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. It also works well as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood. For appetizers, serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or toasted baguette slices. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked or fully baked casserole wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Microwave works for individual portions but may affect texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, just be sure to drain it well and check for shell pieces.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and bake when ready.

3. What cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend all work well.

4. How do I prevent it from getting watery?

Drain the crab meat and avoid overmixing the wet ingredients.

5. Is it gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free crackers or skip the topping.

6. Can I serve this cold?

It’s best served warm, but leftovers can be eaten chilled like a dip.

7. How long does it take to bake?

Around 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

8. Can I use imitation crab?

Yes, though it has a different texture and taste than real crab.

9. What’s the best side for crab casserole?

A green salad, roasted asparagus, or buttery rice pair well.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—use a larger baking dish and increase bake time slightly.

Conclusion

Crab Casserole is the perfect combination of simple and sophisticated. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and easily adaptable to suit any occasion—from a casual weeknight meal to an elegant dinner party. With creamy textures, savory crab, and a crunchy golden topping, every bite is pure indulgence. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a crowd-pleasing casserole, this recipe delivers every time.