If you’ve ever thought about how to elevate your seafood game, then this Crab Casserole is just the ticket—think of it as a beach party in a baking dish!
{
"title": "Crab Casserole",
"prep_time": 15,
"cook_time": 45,
"total_time": 60,
"servings": 6,
"difficulty": "easy",
"cost": "moderate",
"youtube_url": "",
"ingredients": [
"1 lb lump crab meat",
"2 cups cooked white rice",
"1 cup shredded cheddar cheese",
"1 cup cream of mushroom soup",
"1/2 cup mayonnaise",
"1/4 cup chopped green onions",
"1 tbsp Dijon mustard",
"1 tsp Old Bay seasoning",
"Salt and pepper to taste",
"1/2 cup breadcrumbs"
],
"instructions": [
"Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).",
"In a large bowl, combine crab meat, cooked rice, half of the cheese, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, green onions, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until well mixed.",
"Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.",
"Top with the remaining cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.",
"Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and the top is golden brown.",
"Let it sit for a few minutes before serving."
],
"tips": [
"Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor.",
"You can substitute the rice with quinoa for a healthier option."
],
"healthy_alternatives": [
"Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.",
"Replace regular cheese with a low-fat cheese option."
],
"serving_suggestions": [
"Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.",
"Pair with a lemon wedge for added zest."
],
"common_mistakes": [
"Overbaking the casserole can make it dry; keep an eye on it.",
"Not draining the crab meat properly can lead to a watery casserole."
],
"storing_tips": [
"Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.",
"Reheat in the oven for best results, rather than the microwave."
],
"utensils": [
"Large mixing bowl",
"Casserole dish",
"Measuring cups and spoons",
"Spatula",
"Oven mitts"
],
"diet_type": [
"Gluten-free",
"Can be made low-carb"
],
"variations": [
"Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.",
"Use different seafood such as shrimp or lobster for a mixed seafood casserole."
],
"troubleshooting": [
"If the casserole is too dry, add a splash of seafood broth.",
"If it’s too wet, consider adding more breadcrumbs or rice to absorb moisture."
],
"garnish": [
"Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color.",
"Drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick."
],
"leftovers": [
"Transform leftovers into seafood quesadillas.",
"Use as a filling for stuffed peppers."
],
"nutrition": {
"calories": 425,
"protein": 28,
"carbs": 42,
"fat": 16,
"fiber": 2,
"sugar": 3,
"sodium": 890,
"cholesterol": 75
},
"faq": [
{
"question": "Can I use canned crab meat?",
"answer": "Yes, canned crab meat is a convenient choice, but fresh is preferred for flavor."
},
{
"question": "How can I make this dish spicier?",
"answer": "Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture."
},
{
"question": "Can I freeze the casserole?",
"answer": "Yes, it can be frozen before baking. Thaw and bake when ready to eat."
},
{
"question": "What sides pair well with crab casserole?",
"answer": "Steamed veggies or garlic bread complement it nicely."
},
{
"question": "Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?",
"answer": "Absolutely! It holds well in the fridge and can be reheated easily."
},
{
"question": "Can I use a different type of cheese?",
"answer": "Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or blends."
},
{
"question": "What's the best way to store leftovers?",
"answer": "Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days."
}
],
"faq_count": 7,
"reviews": [
{
"name": "Sarah M",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "This is the best crab casserole I've ever made! So creamy!"
},
{
"name": "John D",
"rating": 4,
"comment": "Really enjoyed it, but I think a dash of hot sauce would have made it perfect."
},
{
"name": "Emily R",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "Perfect comfort food for the whole family!"
},
{
"name": "Mark T",
"rating": 4,
"comment": "Great recipe, but a bit heavy. Maybe I'll try it with fewer breadcrumbs next time."
},
{
"name": "Lisa W",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "I added some spinach and it was a hit!"
},
{
"name": "Sophia H",
"rating": 4,
"comment": "Delicious! I used fresh crab, which really made a difference."
},
{
"name": "Tom J",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "My kids loved this! They didn't even notice the veggies."
},
{
"name": "Kathy B",
"rating": 3,
"comment": "It was good, but I expected more flavor. Might try more spices."
},
{
"name": "Chris G",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "Perfect for gatherings! Everyone asked for the recipe."
},
{
"name": "Anna C",
"rating": 4,
"comment": "A little too rich for my taste, but still very tasty."
},
{
"name": "David L",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "Easy to make and absolutely delicious!"
},
{
"name": "Megan N",
"rating": 4,
"comment": "Would recommend! Made it for a family dinner."
},
{
"name": "Ryan S",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "Excellent! I’ll definitely make this again."
},
{
"name": "Chloe K",
"rating": 3,
"comment": "Not bad, but not as good as I had hoped."
},
{
"name": "Jake F",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "Restaurant quality! Loved every bite."
},
{
"name": "Olivia Q",
"rating": 5,
"comment": "Quick to make and so satisfying!"
}
],
"review_count": 20
}
