Creamy Crab Imperial

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Creamy Crab Imperial is one of those rich, indulgent seafood dishes that feels like it came straight out of a fine-dining menu but is surprisingly simple to make at home. With tender chunks of crab meat folded into a luscious, seasoned mayonnaise-based mixture and baked until golden and bubbling, this dish delivers bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s the kind of seafood comfort food that impresses without stress.

Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to something decadent, this classic mid-Atlantic favorite will quickly become a top pick. The creamy, tangy sauce wraps each bite of crab in richness, while a subtle hint of spice balances everything out beautifully. Serve it as a starter in individual ramekins or as a main dish with your favorite sides for a satisfying coastal feast.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crab Imperial

If you love crab cakes or crab dip, you’ll be obsessed with Crab Imperial. It’s got that same sweet crab flavor, but with a creamy, almost souffle-like texture that makes it incredibly comforting. It’s elegant enough for holidays or dinner parties, yet easy enough for a weekend dinner. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a range of side dishes—from roasted veggies to crisp salads or even buttered toast points.

What Kind of Crab Meat Should I Use?

Lump crab meat is ideal for Creamy Crab Imperial. It gives you those luxurious, tender chunks that hold their shape in the mixture. You can also use backfin or claw meat if you’re looking for a more economical option, but lump meat offers the best texture and presentation. Just make sure it’s well-drained and picked over for any shells.

Ingredients for the Creamy Crab Imperial

The ingredients for this dish are straightforward, but each one plays a critical role in building up that signature flavor and creaminess.

Crab Meat
The star of the show. Choose fresh or pasteurized lump crab meat for sweet, tender bites.

Mayonnaise
Adds richness and helps create the creamy texture that binds everything together.

Egg
Helps hold the mixture together while baking, giving it a slight custard-like finish.

Dijon Mustard
Adds tang and depth of flavor without overpowering the crab.

Old Bay Seasoning
A classic seafood spice blend that gives the dish a bit of zest and warmth.

Lemon Juice
Brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness.

Worcestershire Sauce
Brings in umami and a savory complexity that enhances the crab.

Parsley
Fresh and vibrant, it gives a little color and a clean finish.

Panko Breadcrumbs (optional)
For a lightly crispy topping if you want a touch of crunch on top.

How To Make the Creamy Crab Imperial

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a medium bowl, gently whisk together mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and chopped parsley until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Fold in the Crab Meat

Carefully add the lump crab meat to the bowl and use a spatula to fold it into the mixture. Be gentle to keep the crab pieces whole.

Step 3: Transfer to Ramekins or Baking Dish

Spoon the crab mixture into buttered ramekins or a small casserole dish. If using, sprinkle a light layer of panko breadcrumbs over the top.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the mixture is hot and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately while warm.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Crab Imperial

This recipe feeds 4 as a main dish or up to 6 as a decadent appetizer. Serve it hot from the oven in individual ramekins or spooned over toasted baguette slices, baked potatoes, or even alongside seared scallops. It pairs beautifully with citrusy salads, steamed asparagus, or buttery rice pilaf.

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a small baking dish and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the creamy texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Crab Imperial?

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Crisp-tender green beans tossed with garlic and butter add a simple, fresh touch to balance the richness.

Buttery Rice Pilaf

A light and fluffy rice side absorbs the delicious sauce and adds a mild contrast.

Herb-Roasted Potatoes

Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes are a cozy complement to the creamy crab.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon

Bright and fresh, asparagus adds color and citrus that pairs nicely with the seafood.

Toasted Baguette Slices

Use crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the creamy goodness.

Creamy Coleslaw

For a crunchy and slightly tangy balance, coleslaw works well on the side.

Fresh Garden Salad

Keep it simple with greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing counterpoint.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their deep flavor adds a hearty note and pairs surprisingly well with crab.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Crab Imperial, don’t miss these seafood recipes that offer bold flavor and easy prep:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
• Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa
• Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time.

I’d love to know how your version turned out. Did you stick to lump crab or try claw meat? Add a spicy topping or keep it traditional? Let’s chat in the comments!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more comfort food recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next kitchen favorite.

Conclusion

Creamy Crab Imperial brings timeless seafood charm to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it up for a dinner party or sneaking a luxurious bite all to yourself, its creamy, savory flavor is impossible to resist. Keep it simple, keep it rich, and don’t forget the toast points!

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