Crab Bombs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crab Bombs combine creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors in every bite, making them irresistibly tasty. They’re simple to prepare, baked—not fried—so they’re a bit lighter but still crispy on the outside. Perfect for feeding a crowd, they bring elegance to casual occasions and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces or just on their own.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lump crab meat

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• ½ cup cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup green onions, chopped

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix gently until well combined.

3. If using, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor.

4. Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab bombs are golden brown and heated through.

6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for some heat.

• Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill or tarragon instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile.

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with cocktail sauce, spicy aioli, or a lemon garlic butter sauce for variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Crab Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep their crispy texture.

FAQs

What type of crab meat is best for this recipe?

Lump crab meat is ideal because it provides larger chunks and better texture, but you can also use backfin crab meat if needed.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls a day ahead. Store them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving.

Can I freeze Crab Bombs?

Yes, place formed balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Are Crab Bombs gluten-free?

They are not by default because of the panko breadcrumbs, but you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.

Can I use canned crab meat?

Fresh or lump crab meat is preferred for best flavor and texture, but canned crab meat can be used in a pinch.

How do I prevent Crab Bombs from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well combined and chilled if needed before shaping. Don’t over-handle the mixture to maintain texture.

Can I bake these without cheese?

Yes, the cheese is optional and can be left out without affecting the overall structure.

What can I serve with Crab Bombs?

They pair well with fresh salads, dipping sauces like remoulade or tartar sauce, or simply lemon wedges.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, these bites are mild in flavor and kid-friendly but avoid adding spicy ingredients if serving children.

How crispy do Crab Bombs get when baked?

They develop a nice golden crust on the outside due to the panko breadcrumbs while staying tender inside.

Conclusion

Crab Bombs are an irresistible appetizer that combines the delicate flavor of crab with creamy, tangy, and savory ingredients baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, they’re a perfect addition to any gathering or game day spread. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try some of the variations, these tasty bites will be a crowd favorite every time.

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Crab Bombs

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Crab Bombs are delicious, bite-sized seafood appetizers packed with lump crab meat and flavorful seasonings. These golden, baked bites are perfect for game day, parties, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with a tasty, easy-to-eat treat.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

1 pound lump crab meat

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup cream cheese, softened

¼ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup green onions, chopped

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

½ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
3. If using, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor.
4. Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab bombs are golden brown and heated through.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for some heat.
• Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill or tarragon instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with cocktail sauce, spicy aioli, or a lemon garlic butter sauce for variety.
• Store leftover Crab Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to keep crispy texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg