Creamy Crab Imperial

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Creamy Crab Imperial is a timeless seafood classic that brings rich, velvety indulgence to the table. Made with sweet crabmeat and folded into a luscious, seasoned cream mixture, this dish bakes to golden perfection and delivers comfort in every bite. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party, yet easy enough to make on a weeknight.

This East Coast favorite is the kind of meal that feels both special and nostalgic. With origins rooted in old-school seafood houses, Crab Imperial has stood the test of time. It’s versatile too—serve it in ramekins, spooned into puff pastry shells, or even as a decadent stuffing for fish. However you enjoy it, it’s guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crab Imperial

If you’re a fan of crab cakes but want something creamier and more spoonable, this is your dish. The texture is luxuriously smooth, with tender lumps of crabmeat in every bite. It’s seasoned with just enough Old Bay, mustard, and lemon to lift the flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the crab. Best of all, it takes just minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to bake—perfect for last-minute entertaining.

What Kind of Crab Should I Use?

Lump crabmeat is ideal for Creamy Crab Imperial. It has a delicate texture and sweet flavor that stands out beautifully in this dish. If you’re feeling fancy, splurge on jumbo lump for a more impressive presentation. Just be sure to pick over the crabmeat for shells before mixing it into your base. I don’t recommend imitation crab here—you want the real deal to shine through.

Ingredients for the Creamy Crab Imperial

This recipe relies on simple ingredients that bring out the best in the crab. It’s creamy, a little tangy, and full of coastal flavor.

• Lump crabmeat – The star of the dish. Use high-quality fresh or pasteurized crab.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and binds the mixture together.
• Egg – Helps hold the crab mixture and gives it structure when baked.
• Dijon mustard – Adds a little zip and complexity.
• Worcestershire sauce – Brings savory umami flavor.
• Lemon juice – Brightens everything and cuts through the richness.
• Old Bay seasoning – A must-have for any East Coast crab dish.
• Parsley – Fresh and fragrant, adds color and flavor.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Sprinkled on top for a golden, crunchy finish.

How To Make the Creamy Crab Imperial

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and chopped parsley. Stir until smooth.

Step 2: Fold in the Crab

Gently fold in the crabmeat, being careful not to break up the lumps too much. You want visible chunks for that signature texture.

Step 3: Spoon and Top

Spoon the mixture into greased ramekins or a small baking dish. Sprinkle the tops with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy contrast.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Crab Imperial

This recipe makes about four generous servings, perfect for a cozy dinner or a small gathering. Serve it hot straight from the oven in individual ramekins or plated alongside your favorite side dishes.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain that crisp topping and creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crab rubbery.

What to Serve With Creamy Crab Imperial?

H3: Roasted Asparagus

The fresh, crisp flavor of asparagus balances the richness of the crab.

H3: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery potatoes make a perfect companion to the soft texture of the crab filling.

H3: Buttery Dinner Rolls

Great for scooping up every last bit of that creamy mixture.

H3: Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery greens and a lemon vinaigrette bring brightness to the plate.

H3: Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet and smoky flavors play nicely with the briny crab.

H3: White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc rounds it out beautifully.

H3: Herbed Rice Pilaf

Light and fragrant, this lets the crab remain the star while adding a bit of substance.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you love Creamy Crab Imperial, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
• Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes & Broccoli
• Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
• Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad
• Flavorful Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Crema

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try ramekins or stuff it into fish? Maybe added a dash of hot sauce? I’m always excited to hear how you make these recipes your own.

Explore more indulgent seafood inspiration on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Creamy Crab Imperial is the kind of dish that turns a regular evening into something memorable. With minimal prep and incredible flavor, it hits all the right notes of comfort, class, and crave-worthiness. Try it once, and it just might become your new go-to for entertaining or treating yourself to something special.

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