Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Sauté 1 chopped yellow onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 1 cup of chopped celery for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Stir in ¼ cup of freshly chopped parsley and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 2 minutes before removing the mixture from heat to cool.
- While the vegetable mixture cools, extract the meat from 1½ pounds of large boiled crabs, ensuring to keep it chunky. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooled vegetable mixture into the crab meat. Add ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 beaten large egg, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a few dashes of hot sauce. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Creole seasoning, ½ teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, and 1 cup of crushed club crackers, ensuring the crab meat stays intact.
- Clean and dry the reserved crab shells thoroughly. Generously fill each shell with the crab mixture, mounding it up for an inviting appearance.
- Sprinkle extra crushed crackers over the filled crab shells for added crunch and texture. Dot each crab shell with a small slice of butter and finish with a dusting of paprika.
- Carefully place the filled crab shells on a baking sheet and slide them into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling slightly.
Nutrition
Notes
You can prepare the crab mixture and fill the shells in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake for a stress-free entertaining option.
