Save This Avocado Crab Rangoon Bake brings together satisfying richness, creamy crab-and-avocado filling, and a crunchy golden wonton crust. It is my go-to recipe for family gatherings and game nights since it bridges comfort food and party fare in one easy dish.
When the kids huddle in the kitchen asking What is that amazing smell I know this casserole will not have any leftovers.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Adds richness and keeps the filling ultra creamy Use full fat for best results and let it soften fully before beating
- Mayonnaise: Adds tang and smoothness Look for a brand you trust for clean flavor
- Soy sauce: Brings umami Silkier sauces blend well in the filling so choose low sodium for more control
- Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory layer English brands often shine with balanced spice
- Fresh garlic: Lends aromatic bite Always use fresh for maximum flavor
- Ground black pepper: Brightens the taste Use freshly cracked if possible
- Salt: Balances everything Together with soy only a pinch is needed
- Lump crab meat: The star Choose refrigerated or pasteurized crab with visible big chunks for texture Drain and check for shell bits
- Ripe avocado: Give creaminess and bright flavor Look for dark skin that gives a little to the touch Diced just before mixing prevents browning
- Green onions: Add freshness and light onion zing Choose firm bright stalks with no wilting
- Wonton wrappers: These bring that classic Rangoon crunch Non-refrigerated wrappers tend to crisp best
- Unsalted butter: Helps the topping turn golden and adds flavor Melt fully so every wonton gets coated
- Sesame seeds: Optional but they add nice nutty aroma Toasted seeds go a long way if you have some on hand
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius and let it come up to temperature while you prep. This ensures the casserole heats evenly and the wonton topping gets crisp and toasty.
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a large mixing bowl place the softened cream cheese mayonnaise soy sauce Worcestershire sauce minced garlic black pepper and salt. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk for a full minute until the mixture is smooth creamy and completely unified. The slower you go the smoother the base will be.
- Add the Fillings:
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat the diced avocado and sliced green onions. Take care with the crab and avocado small shreds and soft chunks make for a rich varied bite but you do not want to overmix and break the pieces up entirely.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread this creamy filling layer evenly into a lightly greased eight inch square baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure the mixture reaches each corner.
- Top with Wontons:
- Arrange wonton triangles on top of the filling overlapping them just enough to cover but still allow a bit of the filling to peek through This helps the topping bake up crisp all over. Use a pastry brush to coat the wontons with melted unsalted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
- Bake until Bubbly and Golden:
- Place the dish on the center rack of your oven Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes or just until the filling is bubbling at the edges and the wonton wrappers have turned rich golden brown Avoid overbaking as the avocado can lose its texture if cooked too long
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for five minutes This makes it easier to scoop and the flavors settle a bit Serve warm with fresh green onions or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce if you like an extra kick
Save One year my dad tried to sneak extra avocado into the mix It turned out so velvety I started adding avocado every time Now the green swirl is everyone’s favorite surprise layered inside
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely first then store covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best results reheat portions uncovered in a hot oven or toaster oven so the topping re crisps instead of getting soggy. Avoid microwaving larger portions as the wonton loses its delicate crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If crab is not your thing swap in cooked shredded chicken or even sauteed shrimp. Dairy free cream cheese can also work for a lighter dish. Try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for tang and fewer calories. You can even blend in sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra punch.
Serving Suggestions
For an easy gathering serve this casserole family style with a platter of extra baked wonton chips. At dinnertime I like to pair it with a citrusy cabbage slaw for contrast or offer a bowl of sliced cucumbers and radishes on the side.
Cultural or Historical Context
Classic crab rangoon usually comes in fried wontons in many Chinese American restaurants but this casserole gives a nod to retro party dips by turning it into a scoopable bake. Avocado puts a Californian spin on the classic and the whole idea is rooted in that friendly fusion spirit.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer use peak season avocado and serve with tomato cucumber salad During winter try topping with lightly sautéed leeks or shallots for a cozy flavor If you find fresh local crab use it for an upgraded holiday dish
Success Stories
Last Thanksgiving our friends went back for thirds even after a big holiday meal. Someone always asks for the recipe. Even my uncle who says he does not eat avocado took home the leftovers.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can prep the filling ahead freezable up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and top with wontons and bake just before serving. Wonton wrappers do not freeze well so always top fresh.
Save Once you try it this dish will be on your repeat list.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use imitation crab meat?
Yes, imitation crab can be substituted, though real crab offers richer flavor and texture.
- → How do I ensure the wonton topping stays crisp?
Brush wonton triangles thoroughly with melted butter and bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What side dishes pair well?
A light salad or extra wonton chips complement this savory bake without overpowering its flavors.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the filling in advance, but assemble and bake with wontons fresh for maximum crispiness.
- → What can I use instead of crab meat?
Cooked, shredded chicken works well for a non-seafood option with similar texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
No, due to the crab meat, but you can use plant-based alternatives for a meat-free version.