Description
These Crab Bombs are crispy, creamy seafood appetizers packed with real crab meat, cream cheese, and cheddar. Each golden bite delivers a burst of rich, savory flavor and a perfect contrast of crunchy exterior and soft, cheesy interior. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these crab bites are quick, crowd-pleasing, and ideal for parties, date nights, or cozy evenings in.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
1 cup (240 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup (60 g) breadcrumbs
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tsp (5 g) garlic powder
1 tsp (5 g) Old Bay seasoning
½ tsp (2.5 g) paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 egg, beaten
Oil for frying (or use oven/air fryer)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Mix the filling: Combine crab meat, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar in a large bowl until just blended.
Add seasoning & binders: Mix in breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Add the egg: Pour in the beaten egg and mix until the mixture holds together. If too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
Shape into bombs: Form 1.5-inch (4 cm) balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Cook:
Deep fry: Heat oil to 350 °F (175 °C); fry 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C); bake 18–20 minutes until golden.
Air fry: Preheat to 375 °F (190 °C); air fry 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot with lemon aioli, tartar sauce, or spicy mayo.
Notes
Chill shaped bombs for 10–15 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
Avoid overmixing to preserve crab texture.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
You can prep and freeze uncooked bombs for later use.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Deep Fry / Bake / Air Fry
- Cuisine: American