Name: Chinese Baked Crab Delight Seafood Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Imitation Crab Meat (Feel free to substitute with real crab.); 8 oz Imitation Lobster Meat (You can swap for extra crab or scallops.); 1 lb Raw Shrimp (Use frozen shrimp straight from the freezer.); 1 cup Mayonnaise (Consider Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter alternative.); 4 oz Sliced Green Onions (Can be replaced with chives or shallots.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Substitute with sharp cheddar if desired.)

After a bustling week filled with work and endless responsibilities, I found myself craving something comforting yet exciting. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of a Chinese Baked Crab Delight Seafood Casserole! Imagine a rich, creamy dish that brings together the luscious flavors of tender shrimp, imitation crab, and succulent lobster, all harmoniously mingled with gooey cheese and zesty green onions. In just a quick 10 minutes of prep and a mere 30 minutes in the oven, you can transform your weeknight dinner into a delightful feast that rivals any buffet!

What sets this casserole apart is its versatility. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking to mix things up, you can swap in your favorite seafood or even add a pop of color with vibrant veggies. The result? A bubbly, golden dish that not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart. Perfect for family dinners or when unexpected guests arrive, this is a meal that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get started!

Why is Chinese Baked Crab Delight special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This dish comes together in just 10 minutes of prep, making it an excellent choice for busy families.

Rich, Creamy Flavors: The combination of shrimp, imitation crab, and cheesy goodness creates a decadent indulgence that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Versatility in Ingredients: Customize with your choice of seafood or add colorful vegetables for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, this casserole satisfies both seafood lovers and those looking for hearty comfort food.

Time-Saving: In only 30 minutes in the oven, you can serve a delicious meal that feels like a culinary masterpiece.

Discover more thoughtful and quick meal ideas in our easy casserole recipes!

Chinese Baked Crab Delight Ingredients

For the Seafood Mix
• Imitation Crab Meat – This is the primary seafood component providing delightful texture; feel free to substitute with real crab for a more authentic taste.
• Imitation Lobster Meat – Adds vibrant flavor and color; you can swap this for extra crab or other seafood like scallops for variety.
• Raw Shrimp – Ensures fresh taste and must be raw to cook evenly in the oven; always use frozen shrimp straight from the freezer for better results.

For the Creamy Base
• Mayonnaise – Functions as the binder for creaminess in the casserole; consider Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter alternative if desired.
• Sliced Green Onions – Provides a fresh crunch; they can be omitted or replaced with chives or shallots to suit your preferences.

For the Cheesy Topping
• Mozzarella Cheese – Creates a wonderfully melty topping; feel free to substitute with cheddar for a sharper flavor that packs a punch.

Discover how you can elevate your meal with these wonderful Chinese Baked Crab Delight ingredients!

How to Make Chinese Baked Crab Delight

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, preparing it for the delightful bake that’s about to unfold.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the imitation crab, imitation lobster, and raw shrimp with the mayonnaise until everything is generously coated and harmonious in flavor.
Add Green Onions: Gently fold in the sliced green onions, adding a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your seafood mixture without over-mixing.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Spray a 1-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to avoid sticking, then pour the seafood mixture in, spreading it evenly for optimal baking.
Top with Cheese: Carefully spread the mozzarella cheese over the top of the seafood mix, ensuring an even layer for that gooey, golden finish.
Bake: Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and beautifully golden brown.

Optional: Garnish with extra sliced green onions before serving for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Chinese Baked Crab Delight Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Real Crab: Swap imitation crab for real crab meat for a delectable upgrade with authentic flavor and texture.
Integrating real crab offers an exquisite taste, adding a touch of luxury to your casserole.
Extra Veggies: Incorporate chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for added nutrition and a pop of color.
These vegetables will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or cayenne pepper for a fiery twist that enhances the seafood’s rich flavors.
This addition takes your casserole from comforting to exciting, perfect for those who crave a little heat!
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a zesty flavor, or gouda for a creamy twist.
A unique cheese can completely change your casserole’s profile, making it a versatile delight every time.
Dairy-Free: Replace mayonnaise and cheese with plant-based alternatives like avocado or cashew cream for a lighter option.
You might be surprised at how creamy your casserole can still be, while being completely dairy-free!
Different Seafood: Feel free to use scallops, clams, or even crab meat for a different seafood experience each time.
Switching it up can introduce new textures and tastes, making every bite an exciting surprise.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or cilantro for an aromatic freshness that complements the seafood beautifully.
A sprinkle of herbs not only elevates the taste but also adds a lovely visual appeal to your dish.
Pasta Twist: Stir in cooked pasta for a hearty and filling casserole—turning it into a seafood pasta bake everyone will love.
This variation transforms your dish into a complete meal that’s satisfying and comforting, perfect for busy evenings!

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Baked Crab Delight Seafood Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can mix the seafood ingredients (imitation crab, imitation lobster, and shrimp) with mayonnaise up to 24 hours in advance; simply store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and ready to go. The sliced green onions can be added right before baking to maintain their crunch. Just before you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling. With these prep ahead tips, you can enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal effort on hectic days!

Storage Tips for Chinese Baked Crab Delight

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help keep the flavors intact while maintaining the casserole’s creamy texture.
Freezer: You can freeze the Chinese Baked Crab Delight for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped in foil or placed in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, adding a splash of cream or broth if it seems dry.
Serving Freshness: For optimal freshness, it’s best to enjoy the casserole right after baking, but these storage tips will keep your meal enjoyable for days to come!

What to Serve with Chinese Baked Crab Delight Seafood Casserole?

Picture this: a warm kitchen filled with laughter and the captivating aroma of seafood as you gather for a meal. This dish is a perfect centerpiece that invites you to complement it with delightful sides and treats.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Its light, fragrant nature absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, adding a comforting touch to every bite.
Crunchy Asian Slaw: A fresh mix of cabbage, carrots, and a zingy dressing provides a satisfying crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the casserole.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for soaking up the casserole’s delicious sauce while adding a satisfying chew.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli will enhance the dish visually and add necessary nutrients, creating a well-rounded meal.
Steamed Bok Choy: Lightly steamed bok choy offers a slightly crisp texture and subtle bitterness, which contrasts wonderfully with the casserole’s richness.
Hot Green Tea: This soothing beverage lightens the meal and aids digestion, making it an excellent drink option alongside your seafood delight.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish the meal with a refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet for a sweet and tart cleanse that refreshes the palate.

Each of these pairings not only complements the Chinese Baked Crab Delight but also elevates your dining experience into a memorable family feast. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for Chinese Baked Crab Delight

Use Raw Shrimp: Ensure you’re using raw shrimp as pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery and unevenly cooked when baked.
Add Flavor Boosts: For a richer taste, stir in minced garlic or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning before baking to elevate your seafood bake.
Keep Shrimp Frozen: Avoid thawing shrimp before mixing; adding them directly from the freezer helps prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or a blend to create unique flavor profiles for your Chinese baked crab delight.
Veggie Additions: Don’t hesitate to toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or water chestnuts for a nutritious crunch and extra flavor.

Chinese Baked Crab Delight Seafood Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of seafood is best for this casserole?
Absolutely! While this recipe features imitation crab, imitation lobster, and raw shrimp, you can tailor it to your preferences. Feel free to use real crab for a more authentic taste, or swap the seafood for scallops or your personal favorites. The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so let your taste buds guide you!

How should I store leftovers from the casserole?
Very! To keep your Chinese Baked Crab Delight fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and rich flavors. If you plan to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap it tightly in foil or a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Of course! Freezing is a fantastic option for this dish. To freeze your Chinese Baked Crab Delight, allow it to cool completely after baking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if needed.

What if my casserole is too watery after baking?
A common concern! If you find your casserole is watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the seafood. To avoid this, always use frozen shrimp directly from the freezer without thawing them, as thawing can release water. You can also add a bit more mayonnaise or cheese to the mixture to help absorb some of that moisture, ensuring a creamier consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This casserole contains seafood and dairy ingredients, so it’s not suitable for individuals with seafood allergies or lactose intolerance. If you’re preparing a version for someone with these restrictions, consider replacing seafood with chicken for a non-seafood alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese or Greek yogurt for the creamy component.

How can I modify the recipe to be healthier?
Great question! If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this Chinese Baked Crab Delight, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier twist. You can also add in more vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to increase the nutritional value while keeping the flavors vibrant and satisfying.