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Crab Imperial: A Luxurious and Easy Seafood Delight for Beginner Cooks

Crab Imperial: A Luxurious and Easy Seafood Delight for Beginner Cooks
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★★★★★

5.2 from 18 reviews

Crab Imperial is a luxurious yet easy-to-make seafood dish ideal for beginner cooks. Featuring tender lump crab meat blended with a creamy, flavorful mixture and baked to golden perfection, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of rich textures and fresh flavors. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or main course, Crab Imperial pairs wonderfully with crackers, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 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 facilitate easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Crab Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth to form the creamy base. Gently fold in the lump crab meat carefully to keep the pieces large and succulent. Add the finely diced red bell pepper and chopped parsley, stirring lightly to combine evenly.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the crab mixture into the prepared baking dish or divide evenly among ramekins for portion control. If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top to create a golden, crispy crust.
  4. Bake the Crab Imperial: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of baking dish or ramekins used, so keep an eye for a golden crust and thorough heating.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes so the mixture sets to a firm texture. Garnish with extra paprika and fresh parsley for color and brightness. Serve warm with crackers, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Be sure to pick through the crab meat carefully to remove any shells for the best eating experience.
  • Using lump crab meat preserves the texture and luxury feel of the dish.
  • You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though the flavor and texture will differ.
  • Old Bay seasoning is key to adding classic crab flavor; don’t skip it.
  • Adjust salt to taste, especially if your crab meat or mayonnaise is already salted.
  • The breadcrumb topping is optional but highly recommended for added texture.
  • This dish can be made in individual ramekins for elegant presentation or a single baking dish for a family-style serving.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and gently reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crab Imperial, crab meat recipe, seafood appetizer, easy crab dish, baked seafood, seafood dip, lump crab, Old Bay seasoning, creamy crab bake

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/crab-imperial-a-luxurious-and-easy-seafood-delight-for-beginner-cooks/