Crab Mornay
I sometimes have unexpected dinner guests, so I keep the ingredients for this easy microwave entree on hand. Prepared pastry shells overflow with a creamy combination of canned crab and mushrooms. I serve this with a packaged salad and receive lots of compliments on the meal.
I sometimes have unexpected dinner guests, so I keep the ingredients for this easy microwave entree on hand. Prepared pastry shells overflow with a creamy combination of canned crab and mushrooms. I serve this with a packaged salad and receive lots of compliments on the meal.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter cubed
- 2 cups shredded swiss cheese
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1 package (10 ounces) frozen puff pastry shells
- 1 jar (6 ounces) sliced mushrooms drained
- 6 green onions sliced
- 1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimientos drained
- 3 cans (6 ounces each) crabmeat drained, flaked and cartilage removed
- 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley
- Carbohydrate 5.65461319546852 g
- Cholesterol 81.1508333851558 mg
- Fat 27.6625916862504 g
- Fiber 0.584923596847593 g
- Protein 12.6480841670668 g
- Saturated Fat 17.5544738179425 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (84g)
- Sodium 230.820611265729 mg
- Sugar 5.06968959862093 g
- Trans Fat 1.88114386249011 g
- Calories 318 calories
Step-by-step
- Bake pastry shells according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, place butter in a 2-qt. microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds or until melted.
- Add the mushrooms, onions and pimientos. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Combine flour and milk until smooth; gradually stir into the vegetable mixture.
- Microwave, uncovered, on high for 2-3 minutes or until thickened, stirring often.
- Add the cheese, crab, salt and cayenne.
- Cook, covered, on high for 30-60 seconds or until the cheese is melted.
- Spoon into the pastry shells; sprinkle with parsley.
Crab Mornay: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding quick and delicious meals that don't compromise on taste is always a challenge. That's why I've become a master of "make-ahead" components and simple recipes that deliver big flavor without the endless prep work. This Crab Mornay recipe is a perfect example. I stumbled upon it during a particularly hectic week, and it's become a staple in our household ever since. The creamy, cheesy crab filling nestled in perfectly baked pastry shells is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the best part? It's surprisingly easy to whip up even on a weeknight.
The secret to its speed lies in using convenient pre-made ingredients. Puff pastry shells are my go-to; they require minimal effort and yield a beautiful, golden-brown crust. Canned crabmeat, while not always the most glamorous ingredient, is a reliable and affordable option that provides the perfect base for the rich Mornay sauce. I always keep a few cans on hand, along with the other essentials – mushrooms, onions, and pimientos – so I can throw this meal together with little notice. This recipe is my secret weapon for unexpected company or those evenings when I just don't feel like cooking something elaborate.
Beyond the convenience, this Crab Mornay offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, decadent sauce complements the delicate sweetness of the crabmeat perfectly. The addition of mushrooms and onions adds an earthy depth, while the pimientos provide a vibrant pop of color and subtle sweetness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness, completing the dish's overall appeal. I often pair it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread, creating a complete and satisfying meal that feels surprisingly upscale without requiring hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is more than just a quick weeknight meal; it’s a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t always have to be complicated. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and guests alike. I often double the recipe when I have more guests, knowing that everyone will ask for seconds. The combination of creamy cheese, succulent crab, and flaky pastry shells is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try; you won't be disappointed!
Beyond the Recipe: This dish is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – Gruyere or Fontina would be delicious substitutions. If you're feeling adventurous, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, aromatic touch. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Customize it to your liking and create your own signature Crab Mornay. You can even prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake the pastry shells. This further enhances the convenience, making this dish an ideal solution for busy weeknights.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and impressively delicious dinner, reach for this Crab Mornay recipe. It’s a culinary shortcut that delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. It's my secret weapon for busy nights and unexpected guests, and I hope it becomes yours too!
