Step 1

Preheat oven to 450º. Lightly grease 4 natural baking shells or individual ramekins.

Step 2

Melt 1 Tbsp. butter in a small heavy saucepan over low heat; add flour, whisking until smooth.Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute. Gradually add milk and onion; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Remove sauce from heat.

Step 3

Stir in Worcestershire sauce and sherry. Stir in mayonnaise and next 3 ingredients.

Step 4

Melt remaining 4 Tbsp. butter in a medium-size heavy skillet over medium heat. Add crabmeat, and sauté 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in sauce.

Step 5

Spoon mixture into prepared baking shells (about 3/4 cup each). Sprinkle with cheese, and, if desired, paprika.

Step 6

Bake at 450º for 10 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Serve immediately.