Why You’ll Love this Crab “burger” to Go Recipe
If you’re like me and love seafood, you’ll definitely appreciate this Crab “burger” to Go recipe. It’s a delightful twist on traditional seafood dishes, and it’s so easy to whip up!
The combination of crab and shrimp creates a rich, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible. Plus, the creamy cheese sauce adds a luxurious touch that makes every bite a treat.
I love how this recipe is perfect for busy days; you can prepare it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Serving it over hot rice makes it a filling meal that satisfies both my seafood cravings and my hunger.
Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients of Crab “burger” to Go
If you’re ready to set off on a delicious culinary adventure, let’s plunge into the ingredients for our Crab “burger” to Go. This recipe is packed with flavor and comfort, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.
Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just someone looking to impress at dinner time, you’ll want to gather these essentials. Trust me, once you have all the ingredients laid out, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/3 cup processed cheese spread
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk
- 1/8 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (or more, if you’re feeling spicy!)
- 1/4 lb crabmeat
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp
- Hot cooked rice (to serve it all over)
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients for a second. You might think, “Processed cheese spread? Really?” But hear me out—it adds a creamy, dreamy texture that makes this dish so much more indulgent.
And if you can’t find fresh crabmeat, don’t sweat it; canned crab works just fine in a pinch. The same goes for shrimp—cooked shrimp saves you time and hassle.
Just make sure you’re using quality ingredients, because they really can elevate the overall taste. So, gather those ingredients, and get ready to whip up something that will have your taste buds dancing.
How to Make Crab “burger” to Go
Let’s plunge into the delightful process of making our Crab and Shrimp Cheese Burger Casserole! First off, you’ll want to grab 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and mix it with 1/2 teaspoon of pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a bowl.
Then, slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk until it’s smooth—think of it as a mini workout for your arm, but trust me, it’s so worth it. Once that’s combined, set it aside for a moment.
Now, in a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over simmering water if you’re feeling adventurous), combine 1/3 cup of processed cheese spread and the remaining 1 cup of milk. You’ll want to keep stirring until that cheese is all melty and gooey. Honestly, the smell is just heavenly.
Now, here comes the fun part! Add your flour mixture to the melted cheese, along with 1/8 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce. If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of a kick, feel free to toss in more hot sauce—life’s too short for bland food, right?
Stir everything until it’s a beautiful creamy blend, then gently fold in 1/4 lb of crabmeat and 1/2 lb of cooked shrimp. At this point, you’ll probably want to taste it, but be careful—it’s super hot!
Pour this luscious seafood mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish. Don’t skimp on the greasing; nobody likes a sticky situation.
Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, because more cheese is always a good idea. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden.
Serve this goodness over hot cooked rice, and watch as everyone gathers around, ready to indulge! Just wait for the compliments—trust me, you’ll be the star of dinner.
Crab “burger” to Go Substitutions & Variations
While crafting your Crab and Shrimp Cheese Burger Casserole, you might want to explore some substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider using low-fat cheese or a plant-based cheese spread. For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
If seafood isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute the crab and shrimp with cooked chicken or even sautéed veggies for a vegetarian twist. Adding spices like Old Bay seasoning can also enhance the flavor.
And if you’re a fan of heat, just increase the Tabasco sauce. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
What to Serve with Crab “burger” to Go
Exploring different sides to complement your Crab and Shrimp Cheese Burger Casserole can elevate your meal.
I love serving it with a fresh, zesty coleslaw; the crunch and tanginess perfectly balance the rich flavors of the casserole. A side of garlic bread also works wonders, soaking up any extra sauce and adding a satisfying crunch.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a simple green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette brightens the dish beautifully.
For a heartier option, consider pairing it with roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans, which add a lovely pop of color and flavor.
Trust me, these sides will take your meal from good to unforgettable!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Crab and Shrimp Cheese Burger Casserole turns out perfectly, I recommend a few key tips. First, use fresh crabmeat and shrimp for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen works too; just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Next, don’t skip the Tabasco sauce; it adds a subtle kick that complements the seafood beautifully. For a creamier texture, you can mix in a little sour cream or cream cheese.
Also, be cautious not to overbake it; you want everything heated through without drying out. Finally, let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking—it’ll help it set up nicely.
Enjoy your delicious creation!