Description
Cheesy Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin is a luxurious, creamy seafood dish made with sweet jumbo crab, a rich blend of cheeses, and savory spices. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s perfect as an appetizer or decadent dinner centerpiece.
Ingredients
1 lb jumbo lump crabmeat
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small shallot, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
0.5 cup whole milk
0.5 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
0.5 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
0.5 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Extra cheddar or mixed cheese for topping (optional)
Toasted baguette slices or crackers, for serving
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shallot and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the aromatics and stir to combine, cooking for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Reduce heat to low, then whisk in the cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, Old Bay, and Dijon until smooth and melted.
4. Gently fold in the crabmeat and parsley. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a baking dish or ramekins.
5. Top with extra cheese if desired. Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until bubbling and golden. Broil 1-2 minutes for a crisp top.
Notes
Use jumbo lump crab for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t skip the broil step for a golden, cheesy crust.
If reheating, add a splash of cream to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: crab au gratin, cheesy crab, seafood dip