If you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts impressive and delicious, Famous Crab Bombs are a total crowd-pleaser. Picture this: tender, juicy crab meat wrapped in a crispy, golden crust, served with a tangy dipping sauce. It’s the perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday feasts. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked.
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Why You’ll Love Famous Crab Bombs
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or preparing something special for yourself, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: These Crab Bombs work as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them for a party, or make a batch just because you deserve something special.
Impressive Yet Easy: These look like something you’d get at a fancy restaurant, but they’re surprisingly simple to make. No fancy skills required—just a few ingredients and you’re good to go.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet crab meat, savory seasonings, and that crispy, golden exterior will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s a balanced bite of seafood perfection.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out seasonings or even the type of seafood depending on what you love. Adding a bit of spice? You can easily adjust the heat to suit your preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: Every time I’ve made these, they’ve been a hit. They’re a great way to impress guests without all the stress, making them perfect for your next dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients in Famous Crab Bombs
Let’s break it down:
Crab Meat: Fresh or canned—either works! You want it sweet and flaky, and it’s the star of this dish.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and helps bind everything together, giving the Crab Bombs that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Breadcrumbs: These help form that crunchy outer layer, making the Crab Bombs crispy and golden when fried.
Garlic & Onion Powder: For flavor, these two are key. They give the bombs a savory kick that balances the sweetness of the crab.
Old Bay Seasoning: The classic seasoning for crab, this will bring out the best in your seafood.
Egg: To bind the mixture and help it hold together while cooking.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the whole dish.
Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice ties everything together, brightening the flavors and cutting through the richness.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to make these amazing crab bombs:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures they bake perfectly with that crispy golden exterior.
Prepare the Crab Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together crab meat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, egg, parsley, and lemon juice. Be gentle when mixing—keep those crab pieces intact for the best texture.
Form the Crab Bombs: Once the mixture is combined, use your hands to form the mixture into balls or “bombs” about the size of a golf ball.
Coat and Bake: Place the crab bombs on a lined baking sheet and bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve and Enjoy: Let them cool slightly, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. These are amazing on their own, but a tangy tartar or spicy cocktail sauce really takes them to the next level!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Famous Crab Bombs
These crab bombs are great on their own or paired with a variety of sides to make a more complete meal:
Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the Crab Bombs.
Dipping Sauces: Try pairing them with homemade tartar sauce, spicy cocktail sauce, or a lemon aioli for added flavor.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover dipping sauce.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts would complement the flavors of the Crab Bombs beautifully.
As a Main Course: If you’re serving these as a main course, you could add a side of mashed potatoes or rice to round out the meal.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: You can make the crab bomb mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight before forming and baking.
Make It Spicy: If you like some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezer-Friendly: These freeze well! Form the crab bombs, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then store them in a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to eat.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use imitation crab meat?
A1: Yes, imitation crab will work, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly. I recommend using real crab for the best taste!
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Prepare them and refrigerate before baking, then bake just before serving.
Q3: Can I bake them instead of frying?
A3: Yes! Baking is a great option and keeps it healthier. Just make sure to brush the crab bombs with a bit of olive oil before baking to get that golden color.
Q4: Can I freeze them?
A4: Yes! Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Q5: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
Q6: Can I substitute the cream cheese?
A6: You can use a lighter cream cheese alternative or even Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Q7: How do I make these spicier?
A7: Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or even some chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
Q8: Can I use different seafood?
A8: Yes! Shrimp or lobster could be great substitutes for crab. Just make sure to chop them finely.
Q9: How long do these last in the fridge?
A9: They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 2-3 days.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Definitely! Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet and adjust the cooking time if needed.
Conclusion
These Famous Crab Bombs are everything you want in a seafood appetizer—flaky, crispy, flavorful, and totally addictive. They’re a perfect way to impress your guests, or even just treat yourself to something special. Whether you’re planning a gathering or just making a cozy night at home, these will steal the show. So go ahead, give them a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Famous Crab Bombs
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Seafood
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Famous Crab Bombs are packed with fresh lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, and a crispy breadcrumb crust, making them the ultimate appetizer or main dish. Perfect for any seafood lover! #CrabBombs #SeafoodAppetizer #CrabRecipe #OldBaySeasoning #CrabMeat #EasySeafood #HomemadeCrabBombs #AppetizerIdeas #CrabLovers #DeliciousSeafood
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for drizzling)
- Optional: additional Old Bay seasoning for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or tray.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently to combine, keeping the crab lumps intact.
- Form the mixture into compact balls or mounds using your hands or a measuring cup and place them on the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle melted butter over the crab bombs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with additional Old Bay seasoning before serving.
Notes
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Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 crab bombs
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg