Description
Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin is the epitome of indulgence. This rich and creamy dish features succulent jumbo lump crab meat enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully check the crab meat for any shells and set it aside.
- In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in ¾ cup of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Gently fold the jumbo lump crab meat into the cheese mixture, being careful not to break up the crab.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the crab mixture.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
If using canned crab meat, make sure to drain it well and remove any excess liquid.
Feel free to substitute with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
For a spicy twist, add a dash of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg