Are you looking for some delicious and easy-to-make recipes using canned crab meat? You’re in luck! Canned crab meat is a great way to add protein and flavor to any dish, and it’s especially convenient when you’re short on time. In this article, we’ll be sharing 17 quick and tasty recipe ideas that are perfect for busy home cooks like you.
From creamy dips to savory pasta dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility of canned crab meat and are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list of 17 quick canned crab meat recipes!
Creamy Crab Dip
Elevate your gathering with this irresistible Creamy Crab Dip, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. This rich and flavorful dip is made with succulent crab meat, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the crab meat until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is lightly golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
These succulent mushrooms are packed with a rich and buttery crab filling, making them the perfect addition to any party or gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be amazed at how quickly these treats come together.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, butter, garlic, and cheddar cheese until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the crab mixture.
4. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Crab Cakes
A classic seafood favorite that’s quick and easy to make, these crab cakes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying flavorful crab cakes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan with about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop crab mixture into the pan, forming patties about 3 inches in diameter.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Crab and Corn Chowder
Warm up with this creamy and flavorful chowder that combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of crab. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in flour; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in crab meat, corn kernels, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chowder has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Crab Pasta
Add a kick to your pasta game with this spicy crab recipe that combines succulent crab meat with a bold and zesty sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crab meat, sriracha sauce, and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Rangoon Wontons
Crab Rangoon Wontons: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Appetizer
This recipe combines the flavors of crab rangoon with crispy wonton wrappers, perfect for a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the crab meat, cream cheese, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in a small amount of water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the wontons until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Drain the wontons on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Crab and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent crab meat with creamy avocado, crunchy veggies, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat works well)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, crab meat, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Add Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and chilled.
Crab Quiche
A delicious and savory quiche perfect for brunch or dinner, featuring succulent crab meat and a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup fresh crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add crab meat and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour the crab mixture into the pie crust, followed by the cream mixture and grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
7. Let cool before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crab Fried Rice
Elevate your Chinese-inspired meal with this decadent Crab Fried Rice recipe, packed with succulent crab meat and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked crab meat; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Push the vegetable-crab mixture to one side of the pan.
6. Pour in the cooked rice and stir-fry until combined with the vegetable-crab mixture, breaking up any clumps.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crab and Cheese Omelette
Elevate your brunch game with this rich and savory crab and cheese omelette recipe. Fresh crab meat adds a luxurious twist to the classic breakfast dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup fresh lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until well mixed.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle the crab meat and cheese evenly over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds or until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate the humble stuffed shell with the addition of succulent crab and fresh spinach. This unique combination will surely impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the crab mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top of the shells.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Louie Salad
Experience the rich flavors of the Pacific Coast with this iconic salad, featuring succulent crab meat, fresh greens, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a refreshing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 2 tablespoons Louie dressing (or similar creamy dressing)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps.
3. Top with croutons and drizzle with Louie dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and enjoy.
Crab and Artichoke Dip
Crab and Artichoke Dip Recipe
Savor the flavors of the ocean with this rich and creamy dip, perfect for snacking or entertaining. This indulgent treat combines succulent crab meat with tender artichokes and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped parsley, green onions, crab meat, artichoke hearts, and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until warm and lightly browned on top.
7. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Stuffed Jalapeños
Crab Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe
Elevate your party appetizers with this succulent twist on classic jalapeño poppers, filled with the rich flavors of crab meat and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeños
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully hollow out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, crab meat, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the crab mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
Crab and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are a perfect combination of sweet corn and savory crab, making them a delicious snack or appetizer for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat, flaked
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
3. Add the corn kernels and crab meat to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Using a tablespoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes to make all the fritters.
Crab and Shrimp Étouffée
This classic Louisiana dish combines succulent shrimp and crab with a rich, flavorful roux-based sauce, served over steamed rice. A hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until tender (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp and crab meat; cook until pink (2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
5. Gradually add tomatoes and fish stock or water; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let sauce thicken (8-10 minutes).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve over steamed rice and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Bisque
Experience the luxurious flavors of the sea with this rich and creamy crab bisque recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this indulgent soup is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in fish stock, crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 17 quick and delicious canned crab meat recipes! From creamy dips to savory pasta dishes, we’ve got you covered. Impress your friends with our Crab Stuffed Mushrooms or Crab Rangoon Wontons. Satisfy your cravings with Creamy Crab Dip, Easy Crab Cakes, or Spicy Crab Pasta. Or, try something new like Crab and Avocado Salad, Crab Quiche, or Crab Fried Rice. And don’t forget to save room for sweet treats like Crab and Cheese Omelette or Crab Louie Salad. With these recipes, you’ll be hooked on the taste of crab in no time!
