Crab Meat au Gratin
Crab Meat au Gratin is a mouthwatering dish that combines succulent crab meat with a rich and creamy sauce, topped with a cheesy gratin crust. This decadent recipe is sure to impress your dinner guests and is perfect for special occasions or indulgent weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh crab meat
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, green onions, and garlic. Mix well.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the crab meat mixture and gently stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with additional breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Prepare:
Crab Meat au Gratin is best served hot and fresh out of the oven. The creamy cheese sauce complements the delicate flavor of the crab meat perfectly. It can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Preparation Time:
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, with a baking time of 25-30 minutes.
Servings:
This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 23g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 25g
Tips:
- Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor. If fresh is not available, you can use canned crab meat, but make sure to drain it well before using.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for the gratin crust. Gruyere cheese adds a nutty and savory flavor, but you can also try using cheddar or Swiss cheese.
- Serve the Crab Meat au Gratin with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete and satisfying meal.
FAQs:
Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed.
Q: Can I freeze Crab Meat au Gratin?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: Can I substitute the crab meat?
A: Yes, you can substitute the crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a different seafood variation.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can omit the crab meat and add additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms, to make a delicious vegetarian gratin.
Enjoy this Crab Meat au Gratin recipe and impress your family and friends with a delicious and elegant dish that celebrates the flavors of the sea. Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness and savor every bite. Bon appétit!
