Crab Bombs

If you’re looking for an appetizer that will absolutely wow your guests, these Crab Bombs are a game-changer. Imagine the rich, succulent flavor of crab meat packed into crispy, golden-brown little bites—each one bursting with creamy goodness. These bombs are so addictive, you’ll find yourself sneaking a few before they even hit the table! Perfect for a party, a special dinner, or just a treat for yourself when you need something indulgent.

They’re crispy on the outside, warm and flavorful on the inside, and you’ll love the surprise of that crab-filled center. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce or enjoy them straight from the pan—either way, these Crab Bombs are sure to disappear fast!

Why You’ll Love Crab Bombs

Here’s why these Crab Bombs are destined to be your new go-to recipe for impressive appetizers:

Crispy and Golden: The crispy breadcrumb coating forms the perfect crunch while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
Deliciously Creamy: The filling is a combination of sweet crab meat and rich cream cheese, creating a smooth, creamy bite that will melt in your mouth.
Quick and Easy: Though they seem fancy, these Crab Bombs come together quickly, making them perfect for a last-minute snack or a quick dinner.
Customizable: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add spices like Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a fancy party, these Crab Bombs will definitely steal the show.

Ingredients in Crab Bombs

These crab bombs are made with simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor:

Crab Meat: Sweet and delicate, the star of the show. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned crab meat, just be sure to drain and pick through it for any shells.
Cream Cheese: This gives the crab bombs their rich, creamy texture. It melts beautifully inside and keeps everything together.
Breadcrumbs: The coating for the bombs—crunchy on the outside and a perfect contrast to the soft filling inside.
Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the mixture.
Mayonnaise: Helps to bind the filling together and adds a bit of richness.
Lemon Juice: A little splash of lemon juice enhances the flavor of the crab and cuts through the richness.
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and any spices you like (Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, or garlic powder) to flavor the filling and give it a little kick.
Egg: Used to help bind the breadcrumb coating and help it stick to the crab filling.
Oil for Frying: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works best for frying.

Instructions

Let’s dive in and make these amazing Crab Bombs:

Prep the Crab Filling:
In a large bowl, combine your crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, lemon juice, and your desired seasonings. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Form the Crab Bombs:
Take a spoonful of the crab mixture and gently roll it into a ball, about 1 ½ to 2 inches in diameter. Be careful not to pack it too tightly. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.

Coat the Crab Bombs:
In a shallow dish, place your breadcrumbs. In another dish, beat an egg. Dip each crab ball first into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs, making sure it’s fully coated.

Fry the Crab Bombs:
Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), carefully add the crab bombs to the pan. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve:
Once crispy, transfer the crab bombs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a zesty aioli.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 650mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 18g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Crab Bombs

Crab Bombs are the perfect appetizer for any event, but they can also be part of a meal. Here are a few ways to serve them:

With Dipping Sauces: A tangy dipping sauce like cocktail sauce, spicy aioli, or lemon garlic butter sauce makes a great pairing.
As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside a simple salad, grilled veggies, or rice pilaf to make it a full meal.
On a Platter: Present them on a beautiful platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges to make them look even more irresistible at a party or get-together.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Crab Meat: While canned crab meat works fine, fresh crab will give these bombs a superior flavor and texture.
Baking Option: If you’d prefer not to fry, you can bake these crab bombs. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Make Them Mini: For smaller bites, roll the crab mixture into smaller balls and adjust the frying time accordingly.
Make Ahead: You can prep the crab bombs in advance and store them in the fridge. Just fry them right before serving for the best results.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use imitation crab meat for this recipe?
A1: Yes, imitation crab meat can be used as a more affordable option, but it will have a slightly different flavor and texture compared to real crab. It still works great!

Q2: Can I bake the Crab Bombs instead of frying them?
A2: Absolutely! Baking them is a healthier alternative. Just bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

Q3: Can I freeze the Crab Bombs?
A3: Yes! You can freeze the unbaked crab bombs. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or bag. To cook, just fry or bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftover crab bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes or reheat them in an air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Q5: What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
A5: You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, panko, or even finely crushed cornflakes for a different texture.

Q6: Can I make these Crab Bombs ahead of time?
A6: Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture and form the bombs ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and fry them when you’re ready to serve.

Q7: Can I add more seasonings to the filling?
A7: Definitely! Feel free to add garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, or Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor and a little heat.

Q8: Can I make these Crab Bombs gluten-free?
A8: Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure your mayonnaise is gluten-free. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating.

Q9: What should I serve with Crab Bombs?
A9: Crab bombs are delicious on their own or served with a side salad, crispy fries, or even as part of a seafood platter. They’re also perfect with a tangy dipping sauce.

Q10: Can I make a vegetarian version of Crab Bombs?
A10: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version using plant-based crab alternatives or a mixture of mashed potatoes and seasonings. Adjust the texture as needed to form the bombs.

Conclusion

These Crab Bombs are the ultimate appetizer, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests or treat yourself to something indulgent. With crispy exteriors and creamy crab filling, they’re a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or as part of a larger meal, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead—make these Crab Bombs and enjoy!

Print