Get ready to indulge in a seafood lover’s paradise with these 20 delectable crab appetizer recipes! Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick and easy snack, these mouthwatering morsels are sure to impress. From classic combinations like crab and avocado bruschetta to creative twists like spicy crab sushi rolls, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of crab appetizers and explore a variety of flavors, textures, and presentation styles that are sure to satisfy any palate. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking for something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to become your go-to’s for any occasion.
Stay tuned for a culinary journey that will take you from the coast of Maryland to the streets of Asia, and back again, as we explore the rich flavors and versatility of crab in these 20 irresistible recipes…
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent crab stuffed mushroom recipe, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 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, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Avocado Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing twist on traditional bruschetta. Fresh crab, creamy avocado, and tangy citrus come together for a flavorful and textured delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh lump crab meat (such as blue crab or king crab)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the bread for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the diced avocado and lime juice.
6. Spoon the crab meat onto the toasted baguette slices.
7. Top each slice with a spoonful of the avocado mixture.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Crab Rangoon Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, crab-filled dip inspired by the classic Chinese appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of chopped scallions
– 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, crab meat, soy sauce, scallions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the dip.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab cakes, packed with fresh flavor and topped with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons
A delicious twist on traditional wontons, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of crab with the tanginess of cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 8 oz jumbo lump crab meat
– 8 oz softened cream cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, cream cheese, scallions, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Press the edges together to seal the wonton, making sure there are no air pockets.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook wontons in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Crab Sushi Rolls
Spicy Crab Sushi Rolls Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with these delectable sushi rolls filled with succulent crab meat, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked king crab meat
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup carrot sticks
– 1/4 cup avocado pieces
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sushi rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut nori seaweed sheets into desired size for rolling.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place crab meat, cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and avocado pieces in the middle of the rice.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and drizzle with soy sauce and Sriracha sauce.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual rolls.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including preparation time)
Crab and Corn Fritters
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with these crispy crab and corn fritters, perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, corn kernels, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and lemon juice.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the crab mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total.
Crab Stuffed Jalapeños
Crab Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with the rich flavor of crab, perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (drained and flaked)
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
3. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, cream cheese, cilantro, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture.
5. Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Mango Summer Rolls
Beat the heat with these refreshing crab and mango summer rolls, perfect for a light and flavorful snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (about 20-24 sheets)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, crab meat, cilantro, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the crab-mango mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the summer rolls until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Crab Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with these decadent Garlic Butter Crab Crostini, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds (about 20-25 pieces)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Top each crostini with a spoonful of crab meat. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with parsley leaves.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crab and Artichoke Dip
A creamy and indulgent dip that combines the rich flavors of crab and artichokes, perfect for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (such as scallions or chives)
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts (canned or marinated), drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped green onions, crab meat, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
5. If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top of the dip.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Louie Salad Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Crab Louie Salad Bites, packed with succulent crab, crunchy lettuce, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup chopped iceberg lettuce
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 small wonton wrappers (about 3 inches square)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, chopped lettuce, diced avocado, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press gently to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Crab and Brie Phyllo Cups
Elevate your gathering with these bite-sized, flavorful treats that combine the sweetness of brie cheese with the richness of crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup of softened brie cheese
– 1/4 cup of lump crab meat (jumbo or claw meat works well)
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brie cheese, crab meat, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Layer 2-3 sheets of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush with melted butter or olive oil.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crab-brie mixture onto the center of each phyllo sheet.
6. Fold the phyllo into triangles, pressing edges to seal.
7. Place the cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crab Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of succulent crab meat. These bite-sized treats are perfect for your next gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Add the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and horseradish to the bowl with the yolks. Mix until well combined.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with chopped chives or paprika, if desired.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None necessary, as this recipe is a cold appetizer or snack.
Crab and Cucumber Canapés
A refreshing twist on classic canapés, these bite-sized treats combine succulent crab meat with the coolness of cucumber and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cucumber
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 small crackers (e.g., water crackers or club crackers)
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, cucumber, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange crackers on a serving plate or tray.
4. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of the crab mixture onto each cracker.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! These canapés are best served fresh and chilled.
Enjoy your Crab and Cucumber Canapés!
Old Bay Crab Dip
A classic Coastal Maryland twist on traditional crab dip, this Old Bay infused recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, and salt; stir well.
4. Gently fold in crab meat and scallions.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until warm and bubbly.
7. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Spinach Stuffed Pastry
Elevate your pastry game with this decadent Crab and Spinach Stuffed Pastry recipe, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together crab meat, spinach leaves, garlic, and melted butter.
4. Place the crab mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Roll out remaining pastry to match original sheet’s size and place on top of filling.
7. Crimp edges to seal and use a fork to create decorative pattern.
8. Brush top with melted butter and cut a few slits for steam escape.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab and Bacon Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
A delightful appetizer or snack that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory flavors of crab, bacon, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together crab meat, crumbled bacon, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Stuff each cherry tomato half with the crab-bacon mixture, dividing it evenly among the tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using) on top of each stuffed tomato.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crab and Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Crab and Puff Pastry Pinwheels: A Delicious Twist on Classic Appetizers
Elevate your party game with these flavorful and visually appealing pinwheels, packed with succulent crab and wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
4. Spoon the crab mixture along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border on either side.
5. Fold the edges over the filling, then roll into a tight cylinder. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place pinwheels seam-side down on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Cheese Stuffed Bread
Experience the perfect blend of savory crab and melted cheese inside a warm, flaky bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French baguette (14 inches)
– 8 ounces jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and hollow out the inside, leaving about 1 inch of bread on each side.
3. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff the bread with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly between the two halves.
5. Place the stuffed bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a seafood lover’s paradise with these 20 mouth-watering crab appetizer recipes! From classic combinations like crab and cream cheese wontons to bold flavors like spicy crab sushi rolls, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at making mini crab cakes with remoulade, or go sweet and savory with crab and mango summer rolls. These irresistible bites are sure to impress your guests and leave them clamoring for more. Dive in and discover the perfect recipe to kick off your next gathering!
