Quick Crab Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, where culinary excellence meets simplicity! Today, we’re diving into a dish that exemplifies indulgence and sophistication with minimal fuss—the Quick Crab Mornay. This luxurious creation features tender canned crab meat enveloped in a velvety, cheesy sauce that celebrates seafood at its finest. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating a cozy family dinner, this dish merges elegance with ease, making it a must-try for seafood lovers and gourmet enthusiasts alike.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Whether served as an appetizer with crisp toast points, elegantly poured over a bed of rice, or layered atop tender chicken breasts, the rich, cheesy sauce complements a variety of main courses. Its quick preparation time—just 30 minutes from start to finish—makes it ideal for weeknights when time is limited but flavor cannot be compromised. The combination of canned crab meat, white wine, and cheddar cheese creates a harmonious blend of maritime freshness and savory richness that will delight your palate.

As a culinary homage to classic Mornay sauces, this dish simplifies the process without sacrificing the luxurious texture or flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge in seafood without the hassle of fresh seafood preparation, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare for a taste experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups (1 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup)
• Measuring spoons (for accuracy)
• Whisk or fork (for stirring and egg mixture)
• Shallow 1-quart baking dish (preferably ceramic or glass)
• Oven mitts (for handling hot dishes)
• Oven (preheated to 350°F / 175°C)
• Cooking spoon or spatula (for mixing)
• Grater (if shredding cheese from a block)
• Optional: Spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Tags

• Seafood
• Cheesy
• Quick & Easy
• Elegant Dinner
• Comfort Food
• Baked Dish
• Family-Friendly

Serving Size

This recipe makes approximately 1 generous serving, but it can be easily scaled up for larger groups. For a formal dinner setting, plan on 2-4 servings depending on accompaniments and portion sizes.

Difficulty Level

Easy. This recipe is suitable for beginner cooks and requires minimal culinary skills, primarily involving mixing, heating, and baking.

Allergen Information

• Seafood: Crab meat
• Dairy: Cheddar cheese, possible presence of dairy in soup base
• Egg: Used in the sauce
• Wine: Contains alcohol (can be omitted or substituted with broth)

Always check ingredient labels for potential allergies or cross-contamination if you or your guests have food sensitivities.

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: Not gluten-free unless using a gluten-free soup base
• Keto: Not keto-friendly due to cheese and wine content
• Pescatarian: Yes, suitable for pescatarians
• Vegetarian: No, contains seafood and egg

Course

Appetizer or Main Course, depending on the serving method and accompaniments.

Cuisine

French-inspired seafood dish with American comfort food twists.

Ingredients

Ingredient Table

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Base

Begin by gathering your ingredients and preparing your workspace for efficient cooking. In a small saucepan, pour in the cream of mushroom soup. This soup acts as the creamy backbone of the Mornay sauce, providing richness and depth. To this, add the white wine and chicken broth. The wine introduces a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and crab, while the broth enhances the overall flavor profile.

Set the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously with a whisk or spoon to combine the ingredients smoothly. The goal here is to heat the mixture gently and ensure that all components meld into a uniform, creamy base. This process takes approximately 3-5 minutes, during which the mixture will start to simmer slightly, releasing aromas that hint at the savory depth to come.

Step 2: Incorporating the Egg

Once the soup mixture is heated through and well-blended, prepare the beaten egg. In a small bowl, crack the egg and whisk vigorously until the yolk and white are thoroughly combined. This step is crucial for preventing the egg from curdling when added to the hot mixture.

Gradually, add about half a cup of the hot soup mixture into the beaten egg, whisking constantly. This technique, known as tempering, ensures that the egg warms gradually, preventing it from scrambling. Once the egg is warmed and slightly thickened, pour the mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining soup base. Continue stirring to incorporate evenly. This creates a rich, slightly thickened sauce that will coat the crab meat beautifully.

Step 3: Assembling the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, prepare your baking dish. Use a greased or non-stick spray-coated shallow 1-quart dish to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. Once ready, gently fold in the canned crab meat into the sauce mixture. Be careful to avoid breaking up the lumps of crab, as they contribute to the texture and visual appeal of the dish.

Transfer the crab and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula or spoon. Smooth the surface to ensure even baking and melting of the cheese topping.

Step 4: Adding the Cheese and Baking

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the crab mixture. Use a handful of cheese and scatter it uniformly to create a golden, bubbly crust once baked. The cheese not only adds flavor but also forms a delightful crust that enhances the dish’s texture.

Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for approximately 20 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt and turn a light golden brown, indicating perfect doneness. Keep an eye on the dish toward the end to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Serving and Garnishing

Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven using oven mitts. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps the sauce set slightly, making serving easier and neater.

Garnish with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot, either directly from the baking dish or transferred to individual plates. Accompany with toasted bread points, over rice, or spooned over cooked chicken or noodles for an elegant presentation.

Preparation Tips

• Crab Meat: Use high-quality canned crab for the best flavor. Drain well to remove excess liquid, which can make the sauce watery.
• Wine: Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for balanced acidity. If avoiding alcohol, substitute with additional chicken broth.
• Cheese: For a richer flavor, blend in some Gruyère or Parmesan cheese along with cheddar. For a lighter version, reduce cheese quantity or use a lower-fat cheese option.
• Egg Tempering: Always add hot mixture gradually into the beaten egg to prevent scrambling and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Oven Baking: For a more golden crust, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to introduce a subtle heat or smoky depth.
• Texture Control: Incorporate a handful of chopped cooked shrimp or scallops for added seafood richness.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Mozzarella for varying melting properties and flavors.
• Presentation: Serve in individual ramekins for a refined look or in a large casserole for family-style sharing.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and crab mixture ahead of time, assemble, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a fresh, hot dish.

Add-ons

• Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill for garnish
• Lemon wedges to add a citrusy brightness
• Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat
• Additional shredded cheese for topping
• Breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchy topping

Side Dishes

• Toasted baguette slices or toast points
• Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables (asparagus, green beans)
• Light mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Herbed rice or pilaf
• Cooked pasta such as linguine or fettuccine tossed with a light garlic butter

Improvements

• Use freshly prepared béchamel sauce instead of canned mushroom soup for a more refined flavor.
• Incorporate a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.
• Add sautéed garlic and shallots to the sauce base for enhanced aromatics.
• Top with a mixture of grated Parmesan and breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust.
• Use fresh crab meat for a superior taste and texture, if available.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. To maintain the crust’s integrity, reheat uncovered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.

FAQ

Can I use fresh crab instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh crab meat offers a superior flavor and texture but requires more preparation. Ensure it is cooked, shelled, and drained thoroughly before using.

Can I omit the wine?

Yes, replace the wine with additional chicken broth or seafood stock. The wine adds acidity and depth, but the dish remains delicious without it.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, substitute the mushroom soup with a homemade or store-bought gluten-free béchamel sauce or thickened broth. Use gluten-free breading or skip breading altogether.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use reduced-fat cheese, low-sodium broth, and a smaller amount of cheese. Incorporate more vegetables or serve with a side salad to balance the richness.

Conclusion

The Quick Crab Mornay embodies the perfect balance of luxury and simplicity, making it an exceptional choice for a quick yet impressive meal. Its rich, cheesy sauce highlights the delicate sweetness of crab meat, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and refined. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this dish promises to elevate any dining experience with its elegant flavors and quick preparation time. Remember, the key to success lies in quality ingredients and gentle handling to preserve the crab’s tender texture. At Love With Recipes, we believe in bringing gourmet flavors into everyday cooking, and this recipe exemplifies that philosophy beautifully. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish for your next special occasion or cozy night in.

References

• Larousse Gastronomique, The Encyclopedia of Food, Wine & Cookery
• The Professional Chef, The Culinary Institute of America