Crab Brunch Casserole

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
• 2 cups cooked crab meat, flaked
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced green pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually stir in milk, and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheese, mustard, paprika, and Tabasco sauce. Add the crab, celery, onion, and green pepper.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Drizzle melted butter over the top and sprinkle with bread crumbs.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned.

Interesting Facts

• Crab meat is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Celery, onions, and green peppers are known as the "holy trinity" in Creole and Cajun cuisine.
• Bread crumbs are a great way to add texture and flavor to dishes.