Crab Stuffed Sole Recipe is a dish that never fails to impress. As a seafood lover, I have always been drawn to recipes that highlight the delicate flavors of fish and shellfish. The combination of tender sole fillets and creamy crab filling creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
This dish is not just delicious but also quite simple to prepare. With some basic ingredients and a little time, you can create a meal that feels elegant and special. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this crab stuffed sole will surely please the crowd.
Ingredients for Crab Stuffed Sole Recipe
Servings: 4
Sole Ingredients:
- 4 sole fillets (about 4-6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Crab Filling Ingredients:
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Topping Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Crab Stuffed Sole Recipe
Start by preparing the crab filling for the sole. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. This creamy base will make the filling rich and delightful.
Next, add the lump crab meat to the bowl. Gently fold the crab into the mixture. You want to keep the chunks of crab intact for the best texture.
Then add the parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should have a lovely balance of flavors that complement the sweet crab.
Preparing the Sole Fillets
Before stuffing the sole, it is important to prepare the fillets. First, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures the fillets have a good texture.
Season both sides of the sole fillets with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the fillets in the skillet. Sear the fillets for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You just want to lightly cook them to make them easier to handle during stuffing.
Once done, remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside to cool slightly.
Stuffing the Sole Fillets
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the fillets! Lay the cooked sole fillets on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of crab filling onto one end of each fillet.
Carefully roll the fillets up from the end with the filling. Use toothpicks to secure the rolls if needed. This keeps the filling from spilling out while they bake.
Preparing for Baking
Once your sole fillets are stuffed and secured, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, which gives a nice crunch to the top of the dish. This crispy layer adds another dimension of texture to the meal.
Spray a baking dish with cooking spray or lightly grease it with oil. Place the stuffed sole fillets seam side down in the dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the fillets.
Baking the Stuffed Sole
Bake the stuffed sole in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. The fish should be cooked through and the breadcrumbs golden brown.
You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish. It should flake easily.
Serving Suggestions for Crab Stuffed Sole Recipe
- Steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Rice pilaf for a heartier option
Garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days.
To reheat, you can place the leftover crab stuffed sole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Nutritional Information Crab Stuffed Sole Recipe
This crab stuffed sole recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Sole is a lean fish that provides high-quality protein. The crab meat adds healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
Variations on Crab Stuffed Sole Recipe
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations you can try:
- Add chopped bell peppers or green onions to the filling for extra flavor.
- Use different types of fish such as flounder or cod.
- Experiment with different seasonings based on your preference.
Making this crab stuffed sole recipe is both rewarding and satisfying. It marries the delicate flavors of the fish with the rich and vibrant crab filling perfectly.