Crab Brunch Casserole – A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Seafood
Crab Brunch Casserole is a rich and comforting baked dish that blends tender crab meat with eggs, cheese, and savory seasonings. It offers the perfect balance of creamy texture and delicate seafood flavor, making it ideal for brunch occasions. This casserole is simple to prepare and can be assembled ahead of time for convenience. When baked, it develops a golden crust while remaining soft and flavorful inside. The dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, salads, or toasted bread. Whether served at family gatherings or weekend brunches, it delivers a satisfying and elegant meal experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cubed bread (or croissants)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
- Prepare the base: Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add crab: Gently distribute the lump crab meat over the bread layer.
- Add vegetables: Sprinkle chopped green onions and diced bell pepper evenly.
- Mix egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add cheese: Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Combine: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole ingredients.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Rest and garnish: Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Fresh lump crab meat gives the best flavor, but canned or pasteurized crab works well.
- Croissants can replace bread for a richer texture.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Use Gruyère cheese for a gourmet twist.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before.
- Allow the casserole to rest before slicing for cleaner servings.
- Adjust seasoning depending on the saltiness of the crab.
- A dash of lemon zest can brighten the seafood flavor.