Maryland Crab Imperial Recipe

This classic presentation of a timeless favorite is so easy to make it almost makes itself. And once youve tasted the decadent flavor of my crab imperial, it will become one of your all-time favorite recipes. Learn how to make crab imperial, a rich and creamy crab dish with a breadcrumb topping, from this easy recipe.

You'll need lump crab meat, imperial sauce, pimientos, mayonnaise, dry mustard, and Old Bay seasoning. Learn how to make Maryland Crab Imperial, a classic seafood dish with fresh crab meat, mayonnaise, and seasonings. Find out what ingredients you need, how to bake it, and what to serve with it.

I'd describe it as a hot crab dip, a crab casserole, or crab gratin: blue crabmeat tossed with a generous dose of mayonnaise; seasoned with Old Bay, onion or shallots, mustard, and lemon; and topped with buttery bread crumbs that turn golden in the oven. Crab Imperial is a classic Maryland dish. Learn how to make this elegant recipe with sweet lump crab meat baked in a lusciously creamy sauce.

Crab Imperial is typically served in crab or scallop shells. If these shells are not available, use individual baking dishes or a 1-quart baking dish. Succulent lump crab meat is folded into a velvety mixture of mayo, egg, and a blend of spices, including Old Bay.

Then, I baked it until it was golden and bubbly on top, with a crispy Panko topping. While I prefer serving Crab Imperial on scallop shells for an elegant presentation, feel free to use crab shell molds or real shells for a charming touch. Alternatively, this recipe is equally delightful when prepared in a baking dish, scooped out like a dip, and served with fresh crusty bread.

This Classic Crab Imperial dish has all of the rich and creamy flavor of a culinary masterpiece made from scratch at home. Whether served in natural crab shell, individual ramekins or used as a topping for another dish, this recipe is versatile and perfect for entertaining. To create this Maryland Crab Imperial with Buttery Golden Bread Crumbs Recipe, I rely on simple, fresh, and quality ingredients that each bring something special to the table.