🌟 Cheesy Crab Cancun Casserole: Flavorful Mexican Delight 🦀🧀🌶️

Cancun Casserole 🦀🧀🌶️

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 817.6 per serving
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5)
Keywords: Crab, Cheese, Mexican, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours

Description:

I had this at a church dinner years ago and HAD to have the recipe! It is deceptively flavorful and so rich. A nice Mexican rice and a dab of sour cream and avocado salad are tasty additions to make a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 can (12 oz) green chili peppers
• 1 1/2 cups crab meat
• 1/2 cup diced cheddar cheese
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prep:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease an 8-inch square baking pan to prevent sticking.

2. Layer Tortillas:

   • Take your corn tortillas and cut each into quarters.
   • Arrange 4 of the quartered tortillas in an even layer, covering the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

3. Prepare Crab Mixture:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the green chili peppers (drained and chopped), succulent crab meat, diced cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, and the vibrant chopped cilantro.

4. Whisk Cream and Eggs:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the luscious heavy cream and the eggs until well combined.

5. Combine and Season:

   • Gently stir the creamy egg mixture into the bowl of crab goodness.
   • Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and a generous crack of black pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.

6. Create Layers:

   • Pour this delightful crab and cream mixture evenly over the layer of tortillas in the baking pan, ensuring it spreads to cover the surface.

7. Top and Finish:

   • Layer the remaining quartered tortillas on top of the crab mixture, creating a lovely second layer.
   • Sprinkle the remaining diced cheddar cheese over the top for that gooey, cheesy goodness.

8. Bake to Perfection:

   • Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 45 minutes.
   • Keep an eye on it—it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden brown and the casserole is set.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Cut into generous squares and plate up this flavorful Cancun Casserole.
   • Pair it with some Mexican rice, a dollop of sour cream, and a fresh avocado salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes:

• This Cancun Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
• Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though it’s so delicious, it might not last that long!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 817.6
• Total Fat: 62.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 37.4g
• Cholesterol: 349mg
• Sodium: 1078.9mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31.1g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3.9g
  • Total Sugars: 3.7g
• Protein: 35.4g

Recipe Tips:

• For a spicier kick, try using hot green chili peppers or adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the crab mixture.
• Don’t have crab on hand? This casserole is also fantastic with shrimp, diced chicken, or even a medley of your favorite vegetables.
• Make it ahead! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
• Want to make it a complete meal? Serve with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, and some warm tortillas for a truly satisfying dinner experience.

So there you have it—a scrumptious, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying Cancun Casserole that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! 💃🦀🧀 Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite of this Mexican-inspired dish!