Stuffed crab is a delicious seafood dish that is sure to impress at your next dinner party Crab meat mixed with breadcrumbs, onions, celery, and seasonings gets stuffed back into the crab shell before baking to perfection Cooking stuffed crab in the oven helps the stuffing get hot and melty while also baking the crab shell. Follow this simple guide to learn how to cook stuffed crab in the oven for a meal that is full of flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Stuffed crab requires just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge Here’s what you’ll need
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Raw crab shells – Either Dungeness or snow crab legs work well. Make sure to save the shells when cleaning the crab.
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Crab meat – Use whatever leftover crab meat you have on hand. Lump or claw meat works great.
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Breadcrumbs – Plain dried breadcrumbs add great texture to the stuffing. Panko also works well.
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Onions – A small diced onion adds tons of flavor.
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Celery – Diced celery provides some crunch and freshness.
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Eggs – An egg helps bind the stuffing mixture together.
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Butter – A couple tablespoons of melted butter adds richness.
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Seasonings – Old Bay, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Lemon – Fresh lemon juice brightens up the stuffing.
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Vegetable oil – For brushing the crab shells.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for baked stuffed crab that comes out perfect every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This high heat helps brown the shells and cook the stuffing.
Step 2: Mix the Stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, onions, celery, egg, melted butter, seasonings, and lemon juice. Mix until fully combined. The stuffing should be thick enough to mound in the shells. Add a splash of milk or water if it seems too dry.
Step 3: Prepare the Crab Shells
Brush the inside and outside of the crab shells lightly with vegetable oil. This helps conduct heat and brown the shells in the oven.
Step 4: Stuff the Crab Shells
Spoon the stuffing mixture into each crab shell, mounding it slightly on top. Pack the stuffing in tightly.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Crabs
Place the stuffed crabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This prevents sticking. Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and browned. The stuffing should reach 165°F.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Lemon
Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot stuffed crabs. Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips
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Choose crab shells that are similar in size for even cooking. Clean thoroughly.
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Resist overstuffing the crab shells. Allow a bit of room for the stuffing to expand.
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Brush the crab shells with oil or melted butter to help conduct heat.
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Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture. Panko also works great.
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Baked stuffed crab reheats well. Cover and reheat in a 350°F oven.
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Get creative with the stuffing ingredients! Try adding minced clams, cheese, or fresh herbs.
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Cook just until the stuffing reaches 165°F for food safety. Check with a meat thermometer.
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If the top browns too quickly, tent foil loosely over the crabs while baking.
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Serve stuffed crab with lemon wedges, coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or rice pilaf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of crab is best for stuffing?
The best crabs for stuffing are Dungeness and snow crab. Their leg and body shells provide ample space for stuffing. Avoid smaller crabs like blue crabs.
Can I use imitation crab for the stuffing?
It’s best to use real crab meat for superior flavor. Imitation crab tends to have a fishier taste. Use a high quality fresh or frozen crab meat.
How do I thaw frozen stuffed crab?
Place frozen stuffed crabs in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Do not try to cook frozen stuffed crab straight from the freezer.
What if I don’t have crab shells?
If you don’t have intact crab shells, simply bake the stuffing in a greased baking dish until heated through and brown on top. You’ll miss the presentation but it will still taste great!
Can I prep stuffed crab in advance?
Yes! Assemble and stuff the crabs up to a day ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze baked stuffed crab?
Cooked stuffed crab freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow to cool fully before freezing in an airtight container. Reheat straight from frozen until hot in a 350°F oven.
The Perfect Appetizer or Entree
Baking stuffed crab in the oven yields tender crab, browned shells, and hot melted stuffing in one impressive dish. Impress guests by serving this restaurant-quality meal at home. Follow the simple steps for stuffed crab that looks and tastes amazing. This flavorful entree is sure to become a new favorite that makes the perfect appetizer or entree.
Step 4: Baking the Stuffed Crabs
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The crabs should be fully cooked and the filling should be golden brown and crispy. Put the baking sheet with the crabs on it in the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes.
Step 3: Stuffing the Crabs
Take a generous spoonful of the filling and pack it into the cavity of each crab. Be sure to distribute it evenly and press it down gently to ensure a compact filling. Brush the stuffed crabs with melted butter to make them taste better and help them brown while they’re baking.