Savory Crab and Cheese Puff Casserole
This Savory Crab and Cheese Puff Casserole is a delightful and nostalgic appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering! Combining tender backfin crab meat with creamy cheese and fluffy bread, this dish offers a luxurious taste and texture that will impress your guests. The combination of eggs and milk creates a rich custard that binds all the ingredients together, while the dry mustard adds a subtle kick. Serve it warm from the oven as a tasty start to your meal, and watch it disappear in no time! Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a cozy family dinner.
10
Servings
210
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
white bread
10 slices (crusts removed, cubed)
backfin crab meat
1 lb (picked over for shells)
eggs
6 (beaten)
milk
3 cups (whole milk preferred)
parsley
2 tablespoons (minced)
dry mustard
3/4 teaspoon (dry)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
sharp American cheese or cheddar
8 ounces (shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
2
Remove the crusts from the bread and cube the slices into bite-sized pieces.
3
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, dry mustard, and salt until well combined.
4
Gently fold in the cubed bread, shredded cheese, and the crab meat, taking care not to break up the crab too much to maintain some chunks.
5
Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased or pan-sprayed 9" x 13" baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the center is set and the surface is golden brown.
7
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy warm!
Nutrition Information
10.5g
Fat
15g
Carbs
14g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Crab and Cheese Puff Casserole?
It is a nostalgic and luxurious appetizer that combines tender backfin crab meat, creamy cheese, and bread cubes in a rich egg-and-milk custard.
What type of crab meat should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of backfin crab meat, picked over to ensure there are no shells.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while sharp American or cheddar is recommended, you can use other melting cheeses based on your preference.
How many servings does this casserole provide?
This recipe makes approximately 10 servings.
What is the baking temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius).
How long does it take to bake?
The casserole needs to bake for about 1 hour until the center is set and the surface is golden brown.
Should I remove the bread crusts?
Yes, the instructions specify removing the crusts from the white bread before cubing it.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
You will need 6 large eggs, beaten.
What kind of milk is best for the custard?
Whole milk is preferred to create a rich and creamy texture for the custard.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should use a lightly greased or pan-sprayed 9x13 inch baking dish.
How do I avoid breaking the crab meat?
Gently fold the crab meat into the mixture at the end to maintain larger chunks and a better texture.
What gives the casserole its 'kick'?
The addition of 3/4 teaspoon of dry mustard adds a subtle, savory kick to the dish.
Can I serve this for dinner?
While often served as an appetizer, it is also perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner.
Is this recipe low in calories?
Each serving contains approximately 210 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 14 grams of protein.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can assemble the mixture and refrigerate it, but it is best served fresh and warm from the oven.
What size should the bread cubes be?
The bread slices should be cut into bite-sized pieces.
What herbs are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley.
Should the casserole be covered while baking?
No, the instructions state to bake it uncovered to allow the top to brown.
How should I serve the finished casserole?
Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then cut it into squares and serve warm.
How much fat is in one serving?
One serving contains approximately 10.5 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there a specific category for this dish?
It is categorized under Crab recipes and tagged as an appetizer and seafood dish.
Can I use canned crab?
You can, provided it is high-quality lump or backfin meat and well-drained and picked for shells.
What size baking dish is needed?
A standard 9x13 inch baking dish is required.
Is this considered a retro recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a retro recipe, reflecting its classic, nostalgic appeal.
Does it contain salt?
Yes, it uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust to taste.
How do I know when the center is set?
The center should no longer jiggle when the dish is gently shaken, and a knife inserted should come out clean.
Can I add other vegetables?
While not in the original recipe, some people add finely diced celery or onions for extra texture.
Is this a good party food?
Absolutely, its ability to be cut into squares makes it an excellent finger food or appetizer for parties.