Experience the flavors of your favorite Chinese buffet dish right in your own kitchen with our Chinese Buffet Crab Casserole recipe! Packed with savory crab meat, creamy cheese, and a medley of vegetables, this casserole is a comforting and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds to a culinary adventure. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of your favorite Chinese buffet fare.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 ounces lump crab meat or imitation crab meat
- 2 cups raw cabbage, finely shredded (about 1/4 head)
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stalk) celery thinly sliced
- 1/8 cup finely diced cup green bell peppers
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, lump crab meat, shredded cabbage, sliced celery, and diced green bell peppers. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crab and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors of Chinese Buffet Crab Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Crab Meat Options: While lump crab meat is preferred for its sweet and delicate flavor, you can also use imitation crab meat or canned crab meat as alternatives.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on your preferences. You can add carrots, water chestnuts, or bamboo shoots for additional crunch and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a kick of heat to the casserole by incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mixture.
- Garnish Ideas: Garnish the casserole with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole? A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss cheese would also complement the flavors of the casserole nicely.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
Q: Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians? A: Unfortunately, this casserole contains crab meat and is not suitable for vegetarians. However, you can omit the crab meat or substitute it with additional vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I make this casserole keto-friendly or low-carb? A: Yes, you can make adjustments to make this casserole suitable for a keto or low-carb diet. Use full-fat dairy products and omit the sugar to reduce the carb content. You can also replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
Keto Versions and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, use full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Omit the sugar and use a keto-friendly sweetener if desired. Be mindful of the carb content in the vegetables and adjust accordingly.
- Low Carb Version: For a low-carb version, use low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower rice or broccoli instead of cabbage. Reduce the amount of onion and omit the sugar. Choose low-carb cheese options and use full-fat dairy products.
Chinese Buffet Crab Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese buffet fare right to your dinner table. With its creamy texture, savory crab meat, and medley of vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cozy night in, this casserole is a winner. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of Chinese Buffet Crab Casserole!
