King Crab Au Gratin: A Delightful One-Dish Meal
Description
Indulge in the exquisite taste of King Crab Au Gratin, a dish that truly encapsulates the ocean’s bounty. There’s simply nothing quite like the luxurious flavor of crab, and when prepared in this rich, creamy au gratin style, it transforms into an unforgettable meal perfect for any occasion. This beloved recipe hails from the cherished gatherings of the church ladies group, ensuring that each bite is steeped in tradition and warmth.
Recipe Details
| Category | One Dish Meal |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 12 minutes |
| Total Time | 22 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Rating | 5 out of 5 (3 Reviews) |
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to create this delectable dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen crabmeat | 2 cups |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Margarine | 1 tablespoon |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Onions | 1 medium, chopped |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/4 teaspoon |
| White wine | 1/4 cup |
| Bread crumbs | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information
Before diving into the preparation, here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile per serving:
| Nutrient | Content per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 277.2 |
| Total Fat | 16.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 93.2 mg |
| Sodium | 808.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 13.5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2.3 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
Instructions
Creating this delightful King Crab Au Gratin involves a series of straightforward yet essential steps that guarantee a beautifully blended and flavorful dish. Follow along to ensure a successful culinary experience:
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Defrost the Crabmeat: Begin by allowing your frozen crabmeat to thaw completely, which can be done by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or running it under cold water for a quicker method.
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Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low to medium heat, melt the butter. Be cautious not to let it brown, as you want it to remain a beautiful golden hue for this dish.
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Prepare the Roux: Once the butter has melted, stir in the flour, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This roux will serve as the base of your creamy sauce.
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Add Liquids Gradually: Slowly pour in the milk, cream, and chicken broth, continuing to stir as you do so. This gradual addition helps to maintain a smooth consistency in your sauce.
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Thicken the Sauce: Keep stirring the mixture over low heat, allowing it to thicken. You’re aiming for a creamy sauce that will envelop your crab beautifully.
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Incorporate Flavorful Ingredients: Now it’s time to enhance your sauce—add the sharp cheddar cheese, chopped onions, salt, paprika, and white wine. Stir until the cheese has fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
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Gently Fold in the Crabmeat: Carefully stir in the defrosted crabmeat, being gentle to preserve the tender pieces of crab.
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Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the creamy crab mixture into a well-greased 1 ½ quart casserole dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed for optimal baking.
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Top with Bread Crumbs: Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top of the crab mixture. This will create a delightful crust as it bakes, adding a satisfying texture to your dish.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the casserole for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown top that signifies it’s ready to be enjoyed.
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Serve: For an elegant touch, serve your King Crab Au Gratin over a bed of hot, cooked rice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully with the grains.
Enjoying King Crab Au Gratin
This King Crab Au Gratin is more than just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in love, tradition, and delight. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying it as a cozy dinner at home, each bite is sure to please seafood lovers and impress your guests. With its creamy richness and the unmistakable flavor of crab, it’s a dish that celebrates the joys of cooking and sharing with those you love.
Be sure to pair it with a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s as nutritious as it is delectable. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and joy as you create this unforgettable dish.
