Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Baked Cheese Crab Rice Recipe: Perfect Comfort Dish

Craving a dish that perfectly combines comfort and indulgence? Baked Cheese Crab Rice is the ultimate fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness with the sweet and savory flavors of crab. Imagine taking a bite of perfectly baked rice, topped with bubbling golden cheese, and infused with the delicate taste of the ocean. This dish is not just food; it’s a culinary hug.

  • Total Time: 40 min
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale

For the Rice Base:

  • 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati works best)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheesy Crab Topping:

  • 1 cup fresh crab meat (or canned, drained)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Garnish:

  • Chopped parsley
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven
    • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the dish bakes evenly and the cheese gets that perfect golden crust.
    • Pro Tip: Use the broil setting for the last few minutes for extra crispiness.
  2. Prepare the Rice Base
    • Cook 2 cups of white rice and transfer to a mixing bowl.
    • Add 1 tablespoon butter, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
    • Spread the rice evenly in a greased baking dish.
    • Caution: Avoid over-salting; the crab and cheese topping will add plenty of flavor.
  3. Make the Cheesy Crab Topping
    • In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup fresh crab meat, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Mix gently.
    • Spread the mixture evenly over the rice.
  4. Bake to Perfection
    • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Pro Tip: Check at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking the crab.
  5. Garnish and Serve
    • Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Dietary Adjustments

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for added texture if desired.
  • Low-Carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbs while maintaining flavor.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute crab meat with hearts of palm or artichoke hearts and use vegan cheese.

Ingredient Swaps

  • Replace crab meat with shredded chicken or cooked shrimp for a different protein option.
  • Opt for cheddar or Gruyere if mozzarella isn’t available.

Pairing Ideas

  • Author: Anna RM
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 25 min