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Extreme macro of Crab Imperial Recipe showing blistered golden brown cheese and fibrous lump crab chunks.

Crab Imperial Recipe: The Ultimate Creamy Baked Lump Crab

This Crab Imperial Recipe features jumbo lump crab meat folded into a rich, creamy sauce and baked until the cheese is blistered and bubbling. A restaurant-quality seafood classic that's easy to make at home.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Recipe Ingredients
  • 1 lb Lump Crab Meat Drained (454g)
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (120ml)
  • 1 large Egg Beaten
  • 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning (5g)
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard (5ml)
  • 1/2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce (2.5ml)
  • 1/2 cup Sharp White Cheddar Shredded (60g)
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Melted (28g)

Equipment

  • 4 White Ceramic Ramekins
  • 1 Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Rubber Spatula

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Whisk mayonnaise, egg, Old Bay, Dijon, and Worcestershire in a bowl until smooth.
  2. Gently fold in the lump crab meat, taking care not to break the large pieces.
Baking
  1. Spoon the mixture into 4 white ceramic ramekins, creating a messy, irregular top edge.
  2. Top with shredded cheese and a drizzle of melted butter.
  3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is blistered and golden brown.

Notes

Use Jumbo Lump crab for the best texture.
Ensure the cheese is freshly grated for maximum bubbling effect.