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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) Recipe

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 20 reviews

Crab Imperial is a classic American seafood dish featuring tender lump crab meat blended with a creamy, flavorful mixture of mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings, baked to perfection with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping. This easy-to-make baked crab casserole is perfect for beginner cooks and elegant enough for special occasions, served warm with crackers, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Crab Mixture

  • 1 pound lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)

Optional Topping

  • 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking. Lightly grease a baking dish or individual ramekins to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Crab Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Gently fold in the lump crab meat, taking care to keep it in large pieces. Add the diced red bell pepper and chopped parsley, stirring lightly to combine.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the crab mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish or ramekins. If using, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top for a crispy finish.
  4. Bake the Crab Imperial: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and the topping is lightly browned. Confirm it is heated through without overcooking.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes to set. Sprinkle additional paprika and fresh parsley over the top. Serve warm alongside crackers, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Drain any excess liquid from crab meat to prevent watery mixture.
  • Mix breadcrumbs thoroughly with melted butter for a crisp topping.
  • Use a water bath (bain-marie) if desired for even cooking and moisture retention.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before baking for balanced flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crab Imperial, Baked Crab, Crab Casserole, Lump Crab Meat, Old Bay Crab, Seafood Bake, Easy Crab Recipe, Elegant Crab Dish, Party Appetizer, Creamy Crab, Seafood Dinner, Special Occasion Food

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/preheat-your-oven-to-375f-190c-recipe/