If you love rich, seafood-forward appetizers that disappear fast, Crab Bombs are about to become your go-to. These indulgent bites pack sweet crab meat, creamy cheese, and bold seasoning into golden, crispy balls (or baked scoops). Perfect for game day, holidays, or dinner parties, Crab Bombs deliver big flavor with minimal prep—and they’re always a crowd favorite in the U.S., U.K., and Canada.
What Are Crab Bombs?
Crab Bombs are bite-sized crab cakes’ bolder cousin: more crab, more creaminess, and less filler. Think luscious crab filling wrapped in breadcrumbs or baked until bubbling and lightly crisp—pure seafood comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crab Filling
8 oz lump or jumbo lump crab meat, picked over
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
¼ cup grated Parmesan
1 large egg
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped parsley or chives
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For Coating (optional, for fried or extra-crispy baked)
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
1 egg, beaten (for breading)
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
🥣 Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, gently mix cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, mayo, Old Bay, Dijon, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Fold in crab meat carefully to keep chunks intact.
🧆 Step 3: Shape
Scoop mixture into golf-ball-sized portions.
Baked (softer): Place directly on the sheet.
Crispy: Dip each ball in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
⏱️ Step 4: Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden and heated through.
(Optional) Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra color.
Alternative Cooking Methods
🍳 Pan-Fried (Ultra Crispy)
Heat oil over medium. Fry crab bombs 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
🍟 Air Fryer
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crab Bombs
Use lump crab for best texture and flavor
Don’t overmix—keep those crab chunks
Chill formed bombs 15 minutes if mixture feels soft
Fresh lemon juice brightens everything
Taste the mix before shaping and adjust seasoning
Flavor Variations
Spicy: Add diced jalapeño or cayenne
Garlic Butter: Brush with garlic butter after baking
Cheddar Old Bay: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar
Herb-Forward: Add dill or tarragon
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Lemon aioli
Garlic butter
Spicy mayo
Tartar sauce
Sweet chili sauce
What to Serve With
Fresh green salad
Roasted asparagus
Coleslaw
Crackers or crostini (as a dip-style appetizer)
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days
Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture
Avoid microwaving (can turn soggy)
Conclusion
Crab Bombs are rich, savory, and irresistibly satisfying—everything you want in a seafood appetizer. With simple ingredients and flexible cooking methods, they’re perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to something special.