Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing bake that comes together fast and tastes like a creamy seafood hug? This Cheesy Imitation Crab Casserole Bake checks every box. It’s rich, bubbly, and loaded with tender imitation crab, sweet onions, and melty cheese. Think weeknight comfort with weekend flair.

I love this recipe because you can prep it in minutes, toss it in the oven, and get a golden-topped casserole that pairs with a simple salad or garlic bread. It’s budget-friendly, family-friendly, and friendly to your schedule. Let’s get you to that cheesy forkful.

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Why This Cheesy Crab Casserole Works

Fast prep: You’ll mix everything in one bowl and bake. No fussy techniques.
Ultra creamy texture: A simple mix of cream cheese, mayo, and shredded cheese wraps the crab in velvety goodness.
Balanced flavor: Sweet imitation crab, savory aromatics, and a bright splash of lemon keep it from tasting heavy.
Flexible add-ins: You can toss in bell peppers, celery, or a little hot sauce to suit your taste.
Feeds a crowd: One pan easily satisfies 6–8, and leftovers reheat beautifully.

Ingredients

For the casserole

1 1/2 pounds imitation crab (surimi), roughly chopped into bite-size pieces
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best texture)
1 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar
1 small sweet onion, finely diced
1/2 cup finely chopped celery (for crunch and freshness)
1/4 cup sliced green onions (plus extra for topping)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or seafood seasoning)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, but delicious)

Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Rubber spatula

How to Make This Cheesy Crab Casserole

Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Blend the creamy base: In a large bowl, stir cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth. Add lemon juice and Dijon. Mix until no lumps remain.
Season it right: Add Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Add the mix-ins: Fold in onion, celery, and green onions. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and the cheddar.
Fold in the crab: Add the chopped imitation crab and gently mix to coat without breaking it up too much.
Assemble: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella over the top.
Make the crunchy topping: In a small bowl, combine panko, melted butter, paprika, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake: Place on the center rack and bake 22–28 minutes, until the edges bubble and the top turns golden.
Rest and garnish: Let it sit 5–10 minutes to set. Top with extra green onions and a light squeeze of lemon if you like.
Serve: Scoop generous portions and enjoy with a crisp salad, steamed veggies, rice, or toasted bread.

How to Store Leftover Crab Casserole

Cool completely: Let the casserole reach room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Bake at 325°F, covered, for 15–20 minutes, then uncover for 5 minutes to crisp the topping. For single servings, microwave in 30-second bursts, then broil briefly to re-crisp if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Crab Bake

Budget-friendly seafood fix: Imitation crab gives you that sweet, briny flavor without a splurge.
Comfort food texture: Creamy, cheesy, and crunchy on top—textural bliss.
Make-ahead friendly: Assemble a day ahead, cover, and bake when you’re ready.
Great for gatherings: Potlucks, game days, and holidays love this dish.
Kid-approved flavors: Mild, savory, and not fishy—easy win at the table.

Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking: You’ll dry out the crab and split the dairy. Pull it when the top turns golden and the edges bubble.
Skipping the acid: Lemon juice brightens the richness. Don’t leave it out.
Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese clumps. Soften it for a smooth mix.
Heavy-handed salt: Old Bay and cheese already bring salt. Taste before adding more.
Watery add-ins: If you add vegetables like mushrooms, sauté and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

Tasty Variations to Try

Spicy jalapeño crab bake: Add 1–2 diced jalapeños, a teaspoon of hot sauce, and pepper jack cheese.
Veggie-loaded: Fold in sautéed red bell pepper, mushrooms, or spinach (well-drained).
Garlic herb: Add 2–3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley on top.
Cajun twist: Swap Old Bay for Cajun seasoning and add andouille crumbles for smoky heat.
Low-carb swap: Skip the panko and top with extra cheese and crushed pork rinds for crunch.
Seafood mix-up: Stir in a handful of small cooked shrimp or canned crab for more seafood flavor.

FAQ

Can I use real crab instead of imitation?

Yes. Use lump or claw meat. Drain well and gently fold it in to keep the chunks intact. Reduce added salt slightly.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Use more sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt. Add an extra tablespoon of olive oil for richness if you use yogurt.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the panko topping right before baking.

How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?

Pat the imitation crab dry if it looks wet. Cook and drain any high-moisture veggies before adding. Don’t cover while baking.

What should I serve with it?

Simple sides work best: green salad with lemony vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, buttered corn, rice, or garlic bread.

Is imitation crab gluten-free?

Not always. Some brands contain wheat. Check the label and use gluten-free panko if needed.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Imitation Crab Casserole Bake delivers creamy comfort with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or anytime you want something warm and satisfying out of the oven. Keep the ingredients on hand, riff with the variations, and enjoy the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds.