Description

Craving a creamy, indulgent seafood dish that tastes like it came straight from a high-end coastal restaurant? This Cheesy Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin is a quick dinner masterpiece and one of the most comforting food ideas out there. Loaded with tender jumbo lump crab, rich cream, and a blend of melty cheeses, it’s the perfect choice for everything from dinner ideas to elegant starters. Whether you’re planning a special evening or need easy recipe inspiration, this is a delicious answer. Ideal for anyone who loves quick seafood dishes or bold, baked gratins.

Ingredients

1 lb jumbo lump crab meat

3 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 cup heavy cream

4 oz cream cheese

1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

2 shallots, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (plus more for garnish)

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant.

2. Stir in flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.

3. Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Add cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until smooth.

4. Stir in shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Let melt into a thick, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Gently fold in the crab meat, keeping the lumps intact.

6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon mixture into ramekins or an oven-safe dish.

7. Top with extra cheese, bake for 10–12 minutes until bubbly.

8. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.

9. Garnish with fresh chives and serve hot.

Notes

Always use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results.

Be gentle when folding in crab meat to maintain its delicate texture.

Keep a close watch when broiling to prevent burning the cheese top.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course / Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 420
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: crab au gratin, cheesy crab recipe, seafood gratin, quick dinner, holiday appetizer