Irresistible Lump Crab Imperial Casserole Recipe to Savor Tonight

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something truly irresistible about the rich, buttery aroma that fills the kitchen when Lump Crab Imperial Casserole is baking in the oven. After a long week of quick meals, this dish feels like a luxurious escape—creamy, comforting, and packed with delicate crab meat that melts effortlessly on your tongue. What’s amazing is how surprisingly simple it is to whip up this classic Southern favorite at home, turning fresh ingredients into a show-stopping casserole that’s perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to impress without stress, this recipe brings elegance and ease to the table all at once.

Why choose Lump Crab Imperial Casserole?

Effortless Elegance: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, creamy dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Rich Flavor: The buttery crab blends beautifully with savory seasonings for a taste that’s both delicate and indulgent. Versatile Appeal: Perfect for casual family meals or festive gatherings, it impresses every time. Time-Saving: Ready in under an hour, it fits perfectly into busy weeknights. Crowd Favorite: With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich aroma, it’s bound to become your go-to comfort food.

Lump Crab Imperial Casserole Ingredients

For the Crab Mixture

Lump crab meat – Use fresh or high-quality canned for the best authentic flavor in your Lump Crab Imperial Casserole.
Mayonnaise – Adds creamy richness that binds the crab perfectly without overpowering.
Dijon mustard – Gives a subtle tang that brightens the savory flavor profile.
Lemon juice – A splash to enhance freshness and cut through the richness.
Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth with its savory, slightly sweet complexity.
Old Bay seasoning – Classic spice blend that complements crab with a mild kick.
Garlic powder – For a gentle savory note without overwhelming the delicate crab.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.

For the Topping

Panko breadcrumbs – Gives a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts the creamy interior beautifully.
Butter (melted) – Helps the breadcrumbs toast to crispy perfection in the oven.
Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds umami richness and a flavorful crust bonus.

How to Make Lump Crab Imperial Casserole

Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking and easy removal.
Combine: Combine lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl; gently fold until creamy and evenly coated.
Spoon: Spoon the crab mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it with a spatula into an even layer for uniform baking and a polished presentation.
For the Topping:
Toss: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan until crumbs are evenly coated and look a light golden brown.
Sprinkle: Evenly scatter the breadcrumb mixture over the crab, ensuring full coverage for a crisp, golden crust in every bite.
Bake: Place the casserole on the center oven rack; bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, until the filling bubbles and the topping turns golden brown.
Broil: Switch the oven to broil (high), then broil the casserole 1–2 minutes, until the crust deepens to a rich golden hue—watch carefully to avoid burning.
Rest: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest 5 minutes on a cooling rack, allowing the casserole to set for cleaner, neater slices.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Lump Crab Imperial Casserole

Fridge: Store leftover Lump Crab Imperial Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven for a comforting meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing it for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If already baked, reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Reheating: When reheating, cover with foil to prevent the topping from browning too quickly, and heat until the center is hot.

Expert Tips for Lump Crab Imperial Casserole

Choose fresh crab: For the best flavor, use fresh lump crab meat or high-quality canned, avoiding too much broken shell for a cleaner texture.
Gentle folding: Fold ingredients carefully to keep the lump crab intact; overmixing breaks up the delicate meat and changes the texture.
Even topping: Spread panko topping uniformly to ensure a crispy, golden crust across the entire casserole surface.
Watch broiling time: Broil just 1–2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning and maintain a perfect golden finish.
Rest before serving: Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking to set its structure, making it easier to slice and serve.

What to Serve with Lump Crab Imperial Casserole?

There are delightful side dishes that will turn your meal into a memorable feast.

Garlic Butter Bread: This warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every creamy bite of the casserole, adding a comforting touch to your dining experience.
Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast that balances the meal beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt make for a vibrant, flavorful side that complements the savory crab flavors wonderfully.
Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw offers an excellent texture contrast to the creamy casserole while adding a zingy flavor that elevates the overall dish.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn enhances the Southern flair of the meal. Serve it alongside for a sweet, fresh pop that pairs exquisitely with the crab.
White Wine: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc elevates the dining experience, with its crisp notes harmonizing perfectly with the richness of the casserole.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after the meal, leaving a delightful citrus note that perfectly rounds off this elegant dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

Lump Crab Imperial Casserole is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor its rich flavors any day of the week with minimal fuss! You can prepare the crab mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and refrigerate it. For best quality, keep the panko topping separate and assemble just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, spread the crab mixture into the casserole dish, top it with the breadcrumb blend, and bake as directed. This approach not only saves you time but ensures your casserole remains just as delicious, with a crisp topping and creamy filling every time!

Lump Crab Imperial Casserole Variations

Feel free to take this recipe to new heights with these delightful twists that cater to unique tastes and dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crispy topping without the gluten.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the crab mixture to elevate it with a touch of heat that warms the heart.
Creamy Spinach: Fold in a cup of sautéed spinach for an extra nutrient boost and a vibrant green color that complements the crab beautifully.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses into the crab mixture for a rich, cheesy version that everyone will love.
Herbed Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the mixture for a greensy freshness that brightens every bite while enhancing the coastal vibe.
Seafood Medley: Add shrimp or scallops along with the crab for a decadent seafood combo, taking your casserole to a whole new level of luxury.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical flair, stir in some coconut cream for a hint of sweetness and a creamy texture that contrasts with the savory elements.
Lemon Zest: Add the zest of a lemon along with the juice to deepen the citrus flavor, making each bite explode with freshness and brightness.

Lump Crab Imperial Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my lump crab meat is fresh and good to use?
Look for crab meat that is firm, moist, and free of any dark spots or discoloration. Fresh lump crab should smell mild and not overly fishy; avoid any with strong, sour odors or excessive liquid.

Can I store leftover Lump Crab Imperial Casserole in the fridge, and for how long?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the creamy texture intact and enjoy a tasty second serving.

Is it possible to freeze the Lump Crab Imperial Casserole, and what’s the best method?
Very! Freeze the casserole before baking for best results: tightly wrap the dish with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook as directed for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.

What if my breadcrumb topping isn’t getting crispy or golden?
Make sure your panko crumbs are evenly coated in melted butter before sprinkling them on top. Also, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking to achieve that perfect golden crunch. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Is Lump Crab Imperial Casserole safe for pets or suitable for common allergies?
This dish contains shellfish, which can be a common allergen; it’s best to avoid serving it to anyone with seafood allergies. Also, do not feed it to pets, as some ingredients like garlic, butter, and seasonings can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep allergies in mind when cooking for guests!