Print

Crab Au Gratin: The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Crab Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Crab Au Gratin: The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Crab Casserole is a luxurious yet approachable dish that will delight seafood enthusiasts. This creamy casserole features tender lump crab meat enveloped in a rich three-cheese sauce, all topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings, this elegant dish is sure to impress guests while being easy enough for cooks of any skill level. With its comforting flavors and impressive presentation, it’s a must-try recipe that elevates any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lump crab meat
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 shallot
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish or individual ramekins.
  2. In a small bowl, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and mix with panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup Parmesan; set aside.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining butter and sauté shallots and garlic until softened.
  4. Whisk in flour; cook for one minute before gradually adding milk and cream. Stir until thickened (5–7 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and stir in cheeses until melted; add seasonings.
  6. Fold in crab meat gently to maintain chunks.
  7. Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with panko.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly; let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition