crab brulee recipe
Indulge in a luxurious crab brulee recipe—creamy, golden, and perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, impossible to resist
Ingredients
1 lb of fresh crab meat (or substitute with high-quality canned crab, drained well and checked for any remaining shells)
- 1 cup heavy cream for that luscious, velvety texture
- 3 large eggs to bind the custard and create a silky consistency
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory depth
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs for that irresistible golden crust
2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, to enrich the custard)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest brightens the dish with a hint of citrus
- 1 tsp fresh parsley finely chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)
- ½ tsp paprika adds a subtle smoky warmth
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous swap the Parmesan for Gruyere cheese for a richer flavor, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or individual ramekins with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your brulee slides out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Custard Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. This creates the creamy, flavorful base for your brulee.
Step 3: Fold in the Crab
- Carefully fold the crab meat into the custard mixture, ensuring those tender chunks stay intact for the perfect texture.
- Add the chopped parsley for a fresh, herby note.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish or ramekins, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will create that golden, crispy crust we’re after.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
- For an extra crispy topping, switch your oven to broil during the final 1-2 minutes. Just be sure to watch it closely—it can go from perfectly golden to overdone in a flash
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the brulee from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This allows the custard to set further and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a vibrant touch.
Pro Tip:
- If you’re making this ahead of time, prepare the custard mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, simply assemble, bake, and enjoy
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 450mg