The suggested pairings for Crab Imperial are spot on! A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy crab.
Garlic bread is a perfect side, offering a crunchy, buttery texture that pairs wonderfully with the dish’s smoothness. Roasted asparagus adds an earthy flavor and vibrant color, elevating the overall meal.
These sides balance the richness of Crab Imperial, creating a well-rounded, satisfying dining experience.
Crab Imperial is a classic seafood dish that involves mixing fresh crab meat with a rich, creamy filling, then baking it until golden and bubbling.
This dish is known for its luxurious flavors, often served as an entrée or even at gatherings where you want to impress your guests.
The combination of ingredients elevates the crab, highlighting its natural sweetness while adding layers of texture and taste.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Crab Cake Ingredients:
- 3 ounces full-fat mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
- ¼ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon melted unsalted butter
Imperial Sauce:
- 3 ounces full-fat mayonnaise
- 1 ounce heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
Topping:
- 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- A few shakes of smoked paprika
Start by gently mixing the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, ground mustard, and egg in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until well-combined.
Next, add in the crab meat, chopped red bell pepper, and fresh parsley. Gently fold everything together, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
It’s important to retain those large lumps for texture—this is crab imperial, after all!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper until smooth. This creamy sauce will elevate the dish!
Now, it's time to introduce the crab mixture to the imperial sauce. Slowly combine them, ensuring everything is well incorporated but still keeping that lovely chunkiness of the crab.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the crab mixture into a greased baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted unsalted butter and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This will provide a lovely crunch. Evenly sprinkle this topping over the crab dish.
Bake your Crab Imperial in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Make sure to keep an eye on it, as every oven heats a bit differently.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra pop. Invite your guests to dig in, and watch them relish every delectable bite!
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness.
For longer storage, the dish can be frozen, but note that the texture may change upon thawing.
Garlic Butter Green Beans: The brightness from green beans tossed in garlic butter harmonizes beautifully with the richness of Crab Imperial. It’s an easy side that adds freshness.
Coleslaw: A light, crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a fantastic textural contrast. It will refresh your palate after each bite of crab.
Rice Pilaf: A mild, fluffy rice pilaf serves as a neutral base to soak up any extra sauce. Infuse the rice with a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor.
Making Crab Imperial isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating a memory. I hope this guide provides you with everything you need to impress your friends and family—and maybe even yourself.
This dish encapsulates comfort, elegance, and that ocean-kissed flavor we all adore.
So, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a fabulous gathering, this Crab Imperial recipe is your ticket to culinary delight. Now grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking! You won’t regret it.
Ah, Crab Imperial! This dish has a way of transforming a simple dinner into an elegant affair. Growing up near the coast, I found myself indulging in crabs frequently.
But nothing quite compares to the heavenly taste of Crab Imperial—a dish that perfectly blends the sweetness of crab meat with cream and spices.
The first time I made it, I was baffled by its ease and impressed by its impressiveness. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen.
In this guide, I will share with you how to create this sensational dish. Together, we’ll explore its background, the science of why it works, and I’ll sprinkle in some handy tips along the way. Ready? Let’s get started!
Start by gently mixing the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, ground mustard, and egg in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until well-combined.
Next, add in the crab meat, chopped red bell pepper, and fresh parsley. Gently fold everything together, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Lauren Miller is a Maryland-based registered dietitian and the creator of Comfort Food Meals, where she shares easy, nutritious, and heartwarming recipes inspired by her love for comforting, home-cooked meals. With a focus on using wholesome ingredients, Lauren aims to balance indulgence with nutrition in every dish. Her goal is to help others create meals that nourish both body and soul.