Baked Crab Bombs Recipe
Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes
Discover the ultimate appetizer with these delicious Baked Crab Bombs, combining fresh crab meat and savory spices for an irresistible treat.
These Baked Crab Bombs are a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of crab. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, they are sure to impress your guests with their crispy exterior and flavorful filling.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich flavor of fresh crab paired with zesty seasonings
- Crispy outside that gives way to a tender and flavorful filling
- Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion
The Perfect Appetizer
Baked Crab Bombs are the quintessential appetizer for any gathering. Whether you're hosting a festive party or enjoying a cozy night in, these tasty bites will impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds. The combination of fresh crab meat and a medley of spices creates a flavor explosion that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, their bite-sized nature makes them easy to enjoy while mingling or relaxing.
What sets these crab bombs apart is their crispy exterior, which contrasts beautifully with the tender filling inside. The golden crust holds in all the delicious flavors, making every bite a delightful experience. These appetizers are sure to be a conversation starter at any event, attracting attention with their aroma and appetizing appearance.
Versatility in Serving
One of the great things about Baked Crab Bombs is their versatility. They can be served as a standalone appetizer or paired with a variety of dipping sauces to elevate the experience. Consider offering a zesty cocktail sauce, creamy ranch, or even a spicy sriracha aioli for those who enjoy a kick. This adaptability allows you to customize the dish to your guests' preferences, ensuring everyone finds something they love.
Additionally, these crab bombs are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a summer barbecue, or a casual game night, they fit seamlessly into any menu. Their ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the company rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Health Benefits of Crab
In addition to being delicious, crab meat is also a nutritious choice. It's low in calories and rich in protein, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. Crab is also packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc, which contribute to overall health and wellness. Incorporating crab into your meals can help support muscle health and boost your immune system.
Moreover, the use of fresh ingredients like green onions and spices in this recipe enhances not only the flavor but also the nutritional value. This means you can indulge in these tasty Baked Crab Bombs without the guilt, as they offer a delicious way to enjoy seafood while benefiting from its many health advantages.
Ingredients
Baked Crab Bombs Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh crab meat
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Olive oil for brushing
Make sure to use fresh crab meat for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, green onions, and cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
Shape the Bombs
Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Prepare for Baking
Place the crab bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
These Baked Crab Bombs are best served warm and can be paired with a variety of sauces.
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your Baked Crab Bombs turn out perfectly, make sure to use fresh crab meat. The quality of the crab will greatly affect the flavor of your dish. If fresh crab is not available, opt for high-quality canned crab meat. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your mixture.
Additionally, when mixing your ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Gently folding the ingredients together will help maintain the delicate texture of the crab meat. The goal is to combine everything just until it's well incorporated, preserving the crab's natural tenderness.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftover Baked Crab Bombs, storing them is quite simple. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed for up to three days, though they are best eaten fresh. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked crab bombs. After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be baked directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect results.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Baked Crab Bombs with a light salad for a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the crab perfectly. The peppery notes of the arugula balance the savory flavors of the crab bombs, creating a delightful dining experience.
For drinks, consider serving a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon. These beverages enhance the meal without overpowering the flavors of the crab. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these pairings will elevate your dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh?
Yes, canned crab meat can be used, but fresh crab will provide a better flavor and texture.
→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crab bombs and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
→ What dipping sauces pair well with crab bombs?
Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a spicy aioli work well with crab bombs.
→ Can I freeze the crab bombs?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked crab bombs. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag.
Baked Crab Bombs Recipe
Discover the ultimate appetizer with these delicious Baked Crab Bombs, combining fresh crab meat and savory spices for an irresistible treat.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Home Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Baked Crab Bombs Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh crab meat
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Olive oil for brushing
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, green onions, and cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
Use your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Place the crab bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g