If you are looking for a show-stopping, crave-worthy appetizer that combines a buttery biscuit with the sweet, delicate flavors of crab, then you have found your new favorite. This Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe is a delicious twist on a classic Southern treat, packed with sharp cheddar cheese and luscious lump crab meat, all wrapped in a fluffy, golden crust. Perfect for entertaining or elevating your weeknight dinner, these biscuits will quickly become the highlight of any meal and the reason guests ask for your recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the first step to creating these irresistible biscuits. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the sharp cheddar for bold flavor, the buttermilk for tender texture, or the Old Bay seasoning for that quintessential seafood sparkle.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the biscuit dough, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to help the biscuits rise beautifully.
- Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create extra lightness in the dough.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note that complements the seafood perfectly.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
- Cold unsalted butter: Key for flaky layers and a rich mouthfeel; keep it cold for best results.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Brings a tangy, robust flavor that melts into the dough deliciously.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and subtle acidity, making the biscuits tender.
- Lump crab meat: The star of the filling, offering sweet, briny bites throughout.
- Mayonnaise: Keeps the crab filling creamy and rich.
- Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood spice mix that elevates the crab’s natural flavor.
- Lemon zest: Brightens the filling with fresh citrus notes.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Garlic clove: Provides depth and a mild pungency to the crab filling.
- Melted butter: Perfect for brushing the biscuits after baking to add shine and richness.
- Lemon juice: Adds a final touch of brightness to the buttery glaze.
How to Make Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crab Filling
Start by mixing the crab meat with mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. This combination creates a creamy, zesty filling that perfectly balances the sweetness of the crab with savory and citrus flavors. Season it with salt and pepper and then set it aside in the fridge—this step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the dough.
Step 2: Make the Biscuit Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder for a base full of flavor and lift. Next, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs—the small bits of butter will create tender, flaky layers in the biscuits. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese for that rich, gooey texture. Finally, add the buttermilk just until the dough holds together; overmixing can make the biscuits tough, so be gentle. If the dough feels too dry, a tablespoon or two more of buttermilk can make it perfect.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Biscuits
The fun part is shaping your biscuits with the crab filling hidden inside. Scoop about two tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand to create a little disc. Spoon a generous teaspoon of the crab filling in the center, then bring the dough edges up and around, pinching to seal the filling inside. Roll it gently into a ball and place it on your prepared baking sheet. Continue this process with the remaining dough and filling, spacing the biscuits about an inch apart so they have room to rise without sticking together.
Step 4: Bake the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Bake the biscuits for 15 to 18 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown on top. This oven temperature ensures a perfect crust while keeping the inside tender and moist, packed with melty cheddar and savory crab.
Step 5: Brush With Garlic Lemon Butter
As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, whisk together melted butter, garlic powder, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Brush this fragrant mixture generously over each biscuit, giving them a gorgeous shine and an extra layer of flavor that will have you sneaking one before dinner even starts!
How to Serve Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
Garnishes
These biscuits are delightful on their own, but a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a tiny dollop of lemon aioli can take them to the next level. A fresh lemon wedge on the side invites guests to add a burst of citrus, complementing the seafood filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve these savory biscuits alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a bowl of creamy clam chowder to keep the coastal theme going. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade pairs wonderfully, brightening the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe as part of a brunch spread or appetizer platter with other seafood bites like shrimp cocktail or crab cakes. They also work beautifully as mini sandwiches with a bit of lettuce and aioli inside for a fun party finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place the biscuits in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the bread from drying out, you can layer them with parchment paper.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the unbaked shaped biscuits on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can bake fresh batches any time you want your Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe. Frozen biscuits are best used within two months.
Reheating
Reheat your biscuits in a 350-degree oven for about 8 to 10 minutes to regain their fresh-from-the-oven texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispy crust and melty cheese inside.
FAQs
Can I substitute canned crab meat for lump crab meat?
Yes, although lump crab meat is preferred for its texture and flavor, well-drained canned crab meat works in a pinch. Just be sure to remove any excess liquid to avoid soggy filling.
Can I make these biscuits dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based butter and milk substitute for the dough and topping, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly from the original.
Is it possible to add other seafood to the filling?
Definitely! Shrimp or lobster can be mixed into the crab filling for a more decadent version. Just ensure the seafood is cooked and chopped finely before mixing.
How can I make these biscuits spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the biscuit dough or the crab filling for a subtle kick. Alternatively, include some finely diced jalapeños for bursts of heat.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough up to a day in advance and keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Shape and stuff the biscuits right before baking for best results.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about biting into a warm, cheesy biscuit filled with tender crab and kissed with garlic lemon butter. This Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that feels special yet is wonderfully approachable. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, these biscuits bring comfort and elegance together in the most delightful way. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 12-14 biscuits
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a delectable appetizer featuring fluffy, cheesy biscuits filled with a savory crab mixture and topped with a garlic lemon butter glaze. Perfectly golden and bursting with flavor, these biscuits combine the richness of sharp cheddar with fresh crab, making them an irresistible starter for any occasion.
Ingredients
Biscuit Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus more if needed)
Crab Filling:
- 8 oz lump crab meat (drained and picked over)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Lemon Butter Topping:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crab Filling: In a small bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix carefully to keep the crab pieces intact. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator while preparing the biscuit dough.
- Make the Biscuit Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder. Cut in the cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Add the buttermilk and stir just until the dough holds together, being careful not to overmix. If the dough feels too dry, incorporate 1 to 2 tablespoons of additional buttermilk to achieve the right consistency.
- Shape and Fill the Biscuits: Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it into a small disc in the palm of your hand. Place a heaping teaspoon of the chilled crab filling in the center, then fold the dough around it, pinching to seal the edges securely. Gently form into a ball. Place each stuffed biscuit on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for expansion.
- Bake the Biscuits: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the stuffed biscuits for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the edges are perfectly crisp. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Brush With Garlic Lemon Butter: Immediately after removing the biscuits from the oven, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, lemon juice, and optional fresh parsley in a small bowl. Generously brush this flavorful garlic lemon butter over the top of each biscuit to impart a signature shine and rich taste. Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Ensure the crab meat is well-drained and picked over to remove any shells for a smooth filling.
- Do not overmix the biscuit dough to keep the biscuits tender and flaky.
- Optional: Add extra fresh parsley in the garlic butter topping for color and freshness.
- If you prefer spicier biscuits, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crab filling.
- Leftover biscuits can be reheated in a warm oven to restore crispness.
