Description
This Best Crab Casserole recipe features a creamy, cheesy combination of crab meat, Swiss cheese, and savory seasonings baked to perfection. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Crab Mixture
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (freshly shredded for best melt)
- 1/2 large onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened at room temperature)
- 1 lb imitation crab meat (or real crab for a richer flavor)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (I prefer Hellmann’s for its creamy texture)
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Optional Topping
- Additional shredded Swiss cheese (for extra cheesy topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This step ensures that the oven is ready to bake the casserole at the correct temperature for even cooking.
- Prepare the Crab Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the imitation crab meat, finely diced onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, softened cream cheese, shredded Swiss cheese, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the creamy crab mixture into a casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly into a smooth layer, which helps the casserole cook uniformly.
- Optional Extra Cheese Layer: If you prefer a cheesier casserole, sprinkle an additional layer of shredded Swiss cheese over the top of the crab mixture before baking. This step is optional but adds extra richness.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Bake until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- For a richer and more authentic taste, use real crab meat instead of imitation crab.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to blend smoothly.
- Freshly shredded Swiss cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties which may contain additives.
- You can add a pinch of black pepper or paprika for additional flavor if desired.
- Serve warm with a side of toasted bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
