Crab meat is a delicacy that is loved by many all over the world. It is a popular ingredient in many recipes, including the famous New Orleans Crab Meat Au Gratin recipe. This dish is a creamy, cheesy, and savory casserole that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make, and the flavor is out of this world.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound of jumbo lump crab meat
1 stick of unsalted butter
1/2 cup of chopped onion
1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup of chopped celery
1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
2 cups of milk
1 1/2 cups of grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup of chopped green onions
1/2 cup of bread crumbs
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the crab meat, parsley, and green onions. Stir gently until the crab meat is coated with the sauce.
Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations
There are several variations to this recipe that you can try. You can substitute the crab meat with shrimp or crawfish, which are also popular seafood in New Orleans. You can also add hot sauce or Cajun seasoning to give the dish a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served hot out of the oven. You can serve it with a side of garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal. It is also a great appetizer for parties or gatherings.
Conclusion
The New Orleans Crab Meat Au Gratin recipe is a classic dish that is loved by many. It is easy to make, and the flavor is out of this world. You can enjoy this dish with family and friends or serve it at your next party. Give it a try and see why it is one of the most popular dishes in New Orleans.
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