Famous Crab Bombs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crab lovers will adore these Famous Crab Bombs! They combine the rich, sweet flavor of fresh crab with a savory, buttery coating that’s perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The blend of Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning brings a delightful tang and warmth to each bite, and the crushed buttery crackers add a satisfying crunch. These crab bombs are easy to prepare and serve as a decadent appetizer or a unique main course.

Ingredients

• 450 g jumbo lump crab meat, fresh or pasteurized
• 60 ml mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 15 ml Dijon mustard
• 5 g Old Bay seasoning
• 5 ml lemon juice
• 15 ml fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 25 g crushed buttery crackers
• Melted butter for brushing
• Lemon wedges for serving

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Gently fold the mixture together to avoid breaking up the crab meat too much.
3. Take small portions of the crab mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and form them into small mounds or “bombs.” Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a separate small bowl, place the crushed buttery crackers. Gently roll each crab bomb in the crushed crackers, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Brush each crab bomb lightly with melted butter to help them crisp up during baking.
6. Bake the crab bombs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for added zest.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the crab mixture for a spicy flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar to the crab mixture for an extra layer of richness.
• Crab Bombs with a Twist: For more texture, you can add finely chopped bell peppers or scallions to the crab mixture.
• Mini Crab Cakes: If you prefer smaller portions, shape the crab mixture into mini crab cakes instead of bombs for a more bite-sized option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover crab bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat crab bombs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat for this recipe?

While imitation crab meat can be used as a substitute, it will not have the same rich, sweet flavor and texture as jumbo lump crab meat. For the best results, use fresh or pasteurized crab meat.

Can I prepare these crab bombs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crab bombs ahead of time by forming them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, brush with melted butter and bake as directed.

How do I prevent the crab bombs from falling apart?

Be gentle when mixing the crab meat with the other ingredients, as overworking the mixture can cause it to break apart. Additionally, make sure to form the bombs firmly and coat them well with the crushed crackers to help hold them together.

Can I freeze these crab bombs?

Yes, you can freeze the formed crab bombs before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with crab bombs?

Crab bombs pair wonderfully with a light salad, garlic butter dipping sauce, or roasted vegetables. They also go well with a side of rice or mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.

Can I bake these crab bombs in an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the crab bombs for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the outside.

Can I use other types of crackers for the coating?

Yes, you can use any type of crackers for the coating. Saltine crackers or Ritz crackers are great alternatives to buttery crackers if you prefer a different flavor.

How do I know when the crab bombs are done?

The crab bombs should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Can I add more seasoning to the crab bombs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.

How can I make these crab bombs healthier?

To make these crab bombs a bit lighter, you can skip the melted butter brushing and bake them without it. You can also use whole wheat crackers or a lower-fat mayonnaise option.

Conclusion

Famous Crab Bombs are an irresistible seafood treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy coating, tender crab filling, and burst of savory flavor, these crab bombs are sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether served as an appetizer, a main dish, or a snack, they offer a satisfying and delicious way to enjoy seafood. Enjoy with a squeeze of lemon, and prepare to be amazed!

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