Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin

Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin is a rich, creamy, and decadent seafood dish featuring sweet jumbo lump crab meat smothered in a cheesy béchamel sauce, then baked to bubbly golden perfection. A Southern seafood classic, this dish is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you want to indulge in restaurant-quality flavor at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crab au gratin is a showstopper—both in taste and presentation. The tender, succulent jumbo lump crab is the star, while the velvety cheese sauce adds an irresistible richness. It’s easy enough for a weeknight seafood dinner, but elegant enough for entertaining. Plus, it’s a low-carb, high-protein dish that can be served solo or with bread, rice, or vegetables.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Jumbo lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika (for garnish)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking until golden. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring until thickened.
4. Lower the heat and add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Mix in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps.
7. Transfer mixture to a buttered baking dish or individual ramekins. Sprinkle with paprika and additional cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Crab Au Gratin: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of cream.
• Add Veggies: Mix in finely chopped spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious twist.
• Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère, Fontina, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Seafood Mix: Combine crab with shrimp or scallops for a luxurious seafood medley.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through, about 15 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring gently. Avoid overheating to preserve the texture of the crab.

FAQs

What kind of crab meat is best for crab au gratin?

Jumbo lump crab meat is ideal because of its sweet flavor and large, delicate chunks that hold up well in baking.

Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, canned lump crab meat can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and pick over it for any shell fragments.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, since it uses all-purpose flour. Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

What side dishes go well with crab au gratin?

Crusty bread, rice pilaf, asparagus, or a light green salad pair well with the richness of this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake just before serving.

How do I keep the crab from breaking apart?

Fold the crab in very gently at the end and avoid over-stirring to maintain its lump structure.

Can I freeze crab au gratin?

It’s not recommended. The cream and cheese sauce may separate when thawed and reheated, affecting the texture.

What type of cheese melts best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Fontina and Gruyère are excellent melting cheeses that work well too.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, with minimal flour (or using a low-carb thickener), it’s suitable for a keto diet due to its high fat and protein content.

Can I serve this as an appetizer?

Definitely! Portion into small ramekins or serve with crackers or crostini for a luxurious starter.

Conclusion

Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender crab meat, it delivers a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Whether you’re serving it as a decadent entrée or an elegant appetizer, this dish is sure to impress.

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