Cheese Baked Crabs

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Crab Mixture:**
– In a large bowl, combine the fresh crab meat, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
– Gently fold the mixture together, ensuring the crab meat is coated evenly with the seasonings and mayonnaise, but try not to break the delicate crab meat too much. The mixture should be thick but well-combined.
– Once mixed, refrigerate the crab mixture for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the stuffing easier to work with.

#### 2. **Prepare the Baking Dish:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Lightly butter a baking dish (a 9×9-inch or similar size works well), or use individual crab shell halves if you have them for a more authentic presentation. The butter will help the crab mixture cook evenly and prevent sticking.

#### 3. **Stuff the Crab Shells:**
– If you’re using crab shells, spoon the crab mixture into each half-shell, packing it gently. If you’re using a baking dish, spoon the crab mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
– Once the crab mixture is in place, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the top. The cheese will create a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.

#### 4. **Bake the Cheese Baked Crabs:**
– Place the baking dish or stuffed crab shells in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The crab mixture should be heated through, and the top should have a lovely crispy, golden crust.

#### 5. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before serving.
– Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
– Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a bit of citrus zing, or alongside a simple salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.

### Why You’ll Love These Cheese Baked Crabs

1. **Rich and Flavorful:** The combination of crab meat with creamy mayo, tangy mustard, and seafood seasoning creates a flavorful stuffing that’s perfectly complemented by the melted cheese topping. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors.

2. **Perfect for Special Occasions:** Cheese Baked Crabs make for an elegant dish that’s sure to impress guests at dinner parties, holidays, or any special occasion. The rich, cheesy topping and tender crab meat offer a luxurious touch to any meal.

3. **Easy to Customize:** You can easily make this dish your own by adding your favorite seasonings or even mixing in different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Gouda, for a unique twist. For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mixture.

4. **Comforting Yet Fancy:** While this dish feels like a special treat, it’s surprisingly simple to make. It combines the comforting qualities of baked cheese with the elegance of seafood, making it the best of both worlds.

5. **Perfect for Seafood Lovers:** If you’re a fan of crab or other shellfish, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s a delicious way to enjoy fresh crab in a way that’s indulgent yet balanced with the fresh, light flavors of the seafood.

### Final Thoughts:

**Cheese Baked Crabs** are a decadent yet simple way to elevate your next seafood feast. With a rich crab filling and a crispy, golden cheese topping, they’re an irresistible combination that both seafood lovers and cheese enthusiasts will enjoy. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or making them the centerpiece of a dinner, these cheesy crabs will be a crowd-pleaser every time.

Get ready to indulge in this savory, cheesy delight — it’s seafood at its finest!