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New Orleans Seafood Stuffed Crabs

New Orleans Seafood Stuffed Crabs: A Flavorful Feast at Home

Discover the magic of New Orleans Seafood Stuffed Crabs, brimming with crab meat, shrimp, and spices, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 crabs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Creole
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Provides richness and moisture; margarine can substitute for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Celery Contributes crunch and aroma; green bell pepper can add vibrant color.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Enhances aroma and flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Brightens the dish; cilantro can be substituted for a different flavor.
  • pounds Large Boiled Crabs The main protein source, offering a delicious base; canned crab meat can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Creole Seasoning Delivers a spicy kick; Old Bay seasoning makes a good substitute.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Provides color and crunch; can be omitted for a milder taste.
  • ½ teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning Enhances seafood flavor; adjust to taste or use a paprika and cayenne blend.
  • ½ cup Mayonnaise Binds ingredients and adds creaminess; Greek yogurt serves as a lighter substitute.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Adds acidity and brightness; vinegar can be used as a substitute.
  • a few dashes Hot Sauce Provides spice and heat; adjust according to preference or choose a milder sauce.
  • 1 cup Crushed Club Crackers Adds texture and helps bind ingredients; any plain cracker can replace them.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Enhances umami flavor; soy sauce can be a lower-sodium alternative.
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese Adds a savory note; nutritional yeast can replace it as a vegan alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onions Adds a fresh, sharp flavor; any onion variety will work.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Provides mild sweetness and color; smoked paprika adds even more flavor.
For Baking
  • to taste Paprika Dust on top for color and flavor enhancement; make sure to sprinkle generously.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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).
  3. 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.
  4. Clean and dry the reserved crab shells thoroughly. Generously fill each shell with the crab mixture, mounding it up for an inviting appearance.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

Serving: 1crabCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 10mg

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.

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