Description
Crab Imperial is a luxurious and easy-to-make seafood dish that features succulent lump crab meat combined with a creamy, flavorful mixture and baked to perfection. Perfect for beginner cooks, this recipe offers a rich yet approachable way to enjoy crab, enhanced with fresh bell peppers, parsley, and a golden breadcrumb topping for added texture.
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
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or individual ramekins to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup, setting the stage for a smooth cooking process.
- Combine Crab with Mayo Mixture: Gently fold the lump crab meat into the prepared mixture of mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay, paprika, salt, and pepper, taking care not to break up the crab to keep large, tender pieces.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs: Stir in the finely diced red bell pepper and chopped parsley to introduce fresh flavor and texture to the crab mixture.
- Optional Breadcrumb Topping: If desired, mix the plain breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the crab for a crispy, golden crust once baked.
- Bake the Dish: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake until the crab mixture is heated through and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crisp, about 25 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional paprika and fresh parsley over the top to add color and fresh flavor immediately before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve the warm Crab Imperial with crackers, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a delightful meal that caters to varying preferences.
Notes
- Be gentle when folding the crab meat to maintain its flaky texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and Old Bay seasoning, based on your preference.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crunchy texture.
- If desired, individual ramekins make elegant single servings and prevent cross-contamination of leftovers.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
