Name: Crab Stuffed Flounder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Fresh flounder fillets; Fresh or canned crab meat; Cream cheese; Breadcrumbs; Green onions, chopped; Old Bay seasoning; Lemon juice; Salt and pepper

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Short Description

Crab Stuffed Flounder is an elegant yet easy-to-prepare seafood entree featuring tender flounder fillets filled with creamy crab and breadcrumbs, baked to perfection—a luxurious dish that comes together with just a few simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal ingredients: requires only flounder, crab, cream cheese, and pantry staples
Restaurant-quality at home: impressive presentation without the fuss
Customizable flavors: easily tailored with herbs, spices, or alternative seafood
Versatile cooking methods: can be baked or grilled depending on your preference

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh flounder fillets
Fresh or canned crab meat
Cream cheese
Breadcrumbs
Green onions, chopped
Old Bay seasoning
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and prepare a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Make stuffing: In a bowl, gently mix crab meat, softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, Old Bay seasoning, a squeeze of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare flounder: Lay fillets flat on the baking sheet. Spoon the crab mixture onto each fillet and gently press to shape.
Bake: Cook for about 20 minutes, or until flounder is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Plate the fillets while warm. Optional: garnish with extra lemon juice or chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 fillets (serves 4)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Herb additions: Stir in chopped parsley, dill, or chives for added freshness.
Spice twist: Add garlic or onion powder, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce into the filling.
Alternative seafood: Replace crab with shrimp, lobster, or scallops for different flavors.
Cheesy topping: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the stuffing before baking.
Cooking method: Grill using a grill-safe pan: cook on medium for ~10 minutes per side for a smoky finish.

Storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual fillets tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
- Oven: Heat at 350 °F for 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat gently in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen flounder?

Yes—as long as it’s fully thawed and patted dry before stuffing and cooking.

2. What if I don’t have crab meat?

You can substitute with cooked shrimp, lobster, scallops, or a seafood blend.

3. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for best texture.

4. How do I choose fresh flounder?

Look for clear, shiny eyes; bright red gills; and flesh that is moist, firm, and ocean-scented, not fishy.

5. Can I steam the crab meat?

If using fresh crab, cook and cool it first, then gently pick out meat to avoid shells and cartilage.

6. Should I use canned or fresh crab?

Fresh offers better flavor and texture, but canned crab works well in a pinch—just drain thoroughly.

7. Can I grill the stuffed flounder?

Yes—use a grill pan and cook 10 minutes per side over medium heat for a smoky char.

8. What side dishes pair well?

Serve with steamed asparagus, broccoli, a light garden salad, or lemon-butter rice for a complete meal.

9. Can I add cheese on top?

Yes—a sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella before baking creates a melty, golden crust.

10. How do I prevent soggy fillets?

Make sure flounder is dry, stuffing isn’t overly wet, and avoid overbaking—aim for flaking, moist fish.

Conclusion

Crab Stuffed Flounder is a decadent yet accessible dish that brings refined flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether baked or grilled, this flavorful entree shines with fresh seafood, creamy filling, and customizable seasonings—ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a memorable date-night meal. Enjoy!