Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crab Bombs are a must-try for any seafood fan, offering the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and crispy elements. They are incredibly easy to make yet packed with gourmet flavor, making them a perfect appetizer for parties or a tasty addition to any meal. With the perfect balance of Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, and cheddar cheese, they’re both comforting and exciting, and the fresh lemon squeeze adds a refreshing finish. Plus, they’re baked to golden perfection, making them a lighter yet indulgent seafood treat.

Ingredients

1 lb lump crab meat
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, for serving

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until well combined.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.
Using your hands, form the crab mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab bombs are golden brown and heated through.
Serve warm with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Crab Bombs with Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for an extra layer of heat.
Use Different Cheese: If you prefer a different type of cheese, try using Parmesan or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Make Mini Crab Cakes: Instead of forming them into balls, you can flatten the mixture to make mini crab cakes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Crab Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the crab bombs on a baking sheet in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use imitation crab meat instead of lump crab meat?

Yes, imitation crab can be used as a more affordable substitute, though it won’t have the same texture or flavor as fresh lump crab meat.

2. Can I freeze Crab Bombs before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the crab bombs before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I make these crab bombs gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

4. How can I tell when the Crab Bombs are done baking?

The crab bombs are done when they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature to ensure they have reached 165°F (74°C).

5. Can I make these crab bombs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crab bombs and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to form the balls and cover them tightly before refrigerating.

6. What can I serve with Crab Bombs?

Crab Bombs go wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a lemon aioli.

7. How can I make the Crab Bombs less greasy?

Ensure that the baking sheet is lined with parchment paper, which helps prevent excess oil from soaking into the crab bombs while baking.

8. Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried?

Yes, fresh parsley is preferred in this recipe for its vibrant flavor, but you can substitute dried parsley if needed.

9. How do I avoid overcooking the crab bombs?

Keep a close eye on them after the 15-minute mark. Once they’re golden brown, they’re ready to remove from the oven to prevent overcooking.

10. Can I add more Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor?

Absolutely! If you love the flavor of Old Bay, feel free to add a bit more to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Crab Bombs are the perfect seafood treat for anyone craving crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make appetizers. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a night in, these delicious little bites are sure to impress with their combination of tender crab, savory seasonings, and crispy perfection. Try them today for an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Crab Bombs Recipe