Print

Crab Imperial Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 131 reviews

Crab Imperial is a classic, elegant seafood dish featuring tender lump crab meat blended with a creamy, flavorful mixture of mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Topped with optional buttery breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect served warm as an appetizer or a light main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Crab Mixture

  • 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

  1. Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or individual ramekins to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Combine Crab and Mixture: Gently fold the lump crab meat into the mayonnaise mixture (egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay, paprika, salt, and pepper), being careful to keep the crab in large pieces for texture.
  3. Add Vegetables and Herbs: Stir in finely diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh parsley lightly to incorporate fresh flavor and texture.
  4. Add Optional Topping: If desired, mix the plain breadcrumbs with melted unsalted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the crab mixture for a crispy finish.
  5. Bake the Dish: Bake the mixture in the preheated oven until the crab is heated through and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown, ensuring thorough cooking without drying out.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional paprika and fresh parsley on top before serving to enhance visual appeal and freshness.
  7. Serving Suggestions: Serve warm accompanied by crackers, crusty bread, or a fresh salad to complement the creamy and savory crab filling.

Notes

  • Be gentle when folding in the crab meat to maintain its flaky texture.
  • Adjust seasoning, especially salt and Old Bay, to your taste preference.
  • For a lower fat version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, but it may slightly alter the texture.
  • Using fresh lump crab meat significantly enhances the flavor and quality of the dish.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking to save time.
  • If avoiding breadcrumbs, omit the topping and bake as is for a softer finish.

Keywords: Crab Imperial, crab appetizer, baked crab, seafood recipe, lump crab meat, creamy crab dish, classic seafood appetizer

Find it online: https://cookedbycleo.com/crab-imperial-recipe/