Crab Scramble Casserole

Crab Scramble Casserole Recipe from USA with Neufchatel and Green Onions

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Crab Scramble Casserole is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. This casserole is packed with protein from the eggs and crabmeat, making it a filling and satisfying meal. The addition of cream cheese adds a creamy texture and richness to the dish, while the dill weed and green onions provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor.

History

The origins of Crab Scramble Casserole are not well-documented, but it is likely that this dish was created as a way to use up leftover crabmeat in a creative and delicious way. The combination of eggs, crabmeat, and cream cheese is a classic one that has been enjoyed by seafood lovers for generations.

Ingredients

1 tbsp canola oil or melted butter
12 eggs
0.5 cup fat-free (skim) milk
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp white pepper
1.5 tsp chopped fresh dill weed or 0.5 tsp dried dill weed
1 cup chopped cooked crabmeat or imitation crabmeat
1 package (8 oz / 227 g) reduced-fat cream cheese (neufchatel), cut into 0.5 inch cubes
2 medium green onions, sliced (2 tbsp)
paprika

How to prepare

Pour oil into a square baking dish, measuring 8x8x2 inches, and tilt the dish to coat the bottom.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, milk, salt, white pepper, and dill weed with a fork or wire whisk until well mixed.
Stir in the crabmeat, cream cheese, and onions.
Pour the mixture into the baking dish.
Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but no longer than 24 hours.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Sprinkle paprika over the egg mixture.
Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the center is set.

Variations

Add in diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Use shrimp or lobster meat instead of crabmeat for a different twist on the dish.
Top the casserole with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to beat the eggs well to ensure a light and fluffy texture in the casserole.

- Make sure to refrigerate the casserole for at least 4 hours before baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding in your favorite herbs or spices, such as parsley or Old Bay seasoning.

- Serve the casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crab Scramble Casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to beat the eggs well to ensure a light and fluffy texture in the casserole.

- Refrigerate the casserole for at least 4 hours before baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Bake the casserole uncovered to allow the top to brown and set.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular cream cheese instead of reduced-fat if desired.

- Substitute dried dill weed for fresh if fresh is not available.

- Use imitation crabmeat if fresh crabmeat is not available.

Make Ahead Tips

Crab Scramble Casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for entertaining or busy mornings.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh dill sprigs or additional sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Crab Scramble Casserole with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Crab Scramble Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crab Scramble Casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crab Scramble Casserole contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crab Scramble Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Crab Scramble Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Crab Scramble Casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese) and shellfish (crabmeat).

Summary

Crab Scramble Casserole is a high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious meal that is perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Summary

Crab Scramble Casserole is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this casserole is a nutritious and satisfying meal that is sure to please seafood lovers. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Agnes in her cozy little kitchen. Agnes was known for her delicious and inventive seafood dishes, and on this particular day, she was preparing a Crab Scramble Casserole that had my mouth watering just thinking about it.

As I watched Agnes work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but ask her about the recipe. She smiled and told me that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, and she was happy to share it with me. I eagerly took notes as she explained the ingredients and steps involved in making the casserole.

The key to the dish, Agnes told me, was fresh crab meat. She explained that she always used lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. She also added in a variety of vegetables, including bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, to give the casserole a savory and hearty flavor.

After sautéing the vegetables in butter until they were tender, Agnes mixed in the crab meat and gently folded in beaten eggs. She seasoned the mixture with a blend of herbs and spices, including Old Bay seasoning, parsley, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.

As the casserole baked in the oven, the aroma that filled Agnes' kitchen was absolutely heavenly. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the finished dish. When it was finally ready, Agnes served me a generous portion of the Crab Scramble Casserole, topped with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

The first bite was pure bliss. The flavors of the crab, vegetables, and spices melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. I savored every bite, feeling grateful to Agnes for sharing her family recipe with me.

From that day on, the Crab Scramble Casserole became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tasted it. I loved how the dish brought people together and created lasting memories around the dinner table.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding in my own personal touches and variations to make it my own. Sometimes I like to add in a splash of white wine or a handful of fresh herbs from my garden to elevate the flavors even further. Other times, I might switch up the vegetables or spices to create a new twist on an old favorite.

No matter how I choose to prepare it, the Crab Scramble Casserole always brings me back to that sunny afternoon in Agnes' kitchen, where I first fell in love with the dish. It reminds me of the power of good food to connect us to our past, to nourish our bodies and souls, and to create lasting bonds with those we love.

And so, every time I make the Crab Scramble Casserole, I do it with a grateful heart and a joyful spirit, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has brought me so much joy and fulfillment over the years. I am forever grateful to Agnes for sharing her recipe with me and for inspiring me to become the passionate cook that I am today.