This creamy Crab Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish packed with rich flavors and textures. The combination of imitation crab meat with a luscious mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cream cheese creates a smooth base, while the blend of Swiss and Cheddar cheeses adds depth and gooey goodness. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb imitation crab meat, chopped or shredded
- 3 green onions, chopped (include both white and green parts)
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Getting the oven ready beforehand ensures even cooking once the casserole is inside.
2. Prepare the Crab Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the imitation crab meat, mayonnaise, green onions, sour cream, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated. This creates a creamy, flavorful base for the casserole.
3. Add the Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese into the crab mixture. The Swiss cheese adds a nutty flavor and enhances the richness of the casserole.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
- Scoop the prepared crab mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling.
6. Add Cheddar Topping:
- About 5 minutes before the cooking time is up, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven and continue baking until the cheddar is fully melted and golden.
7. Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. The dish is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a side salad or some crusty bread.
Description and Tips:
This Crab Casserole combines the mild flavor of imitation crab with a rich, creamy mixture of cheeses and seasonings. The balance between the garlic powder and mustard powder adds subtle flavor, while the green onions provide a fresh bite. The Swiss cheese melts perfectly into the dish, and the final touch of Cheddar on top gives it a satisfying cheesy crust.
Tips:
- Shred the crab meat: Whether you chop or shred the imitation crab, ensure that it’s in small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- For added texture, consider mixing in some panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers with the Cheddar topping for a crunchy finish.
- Feel free to substitute the imitation crab with real crab meat if you prefer, though this will increase the richness and cost of the dish.
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food that pairs perfectly with a side of steamed veggies, rice, or even as a filling for a sandwich.
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