Description
These Oven-Baked Irresistible Crab Crunchies are a perfect seafood appetizer that’s quick to prepare and delightfully crispy. Made with cooked crab meat combined with cheese, breadcrumbs, and flavorful seasonings, these bite-sized treats are oven-baked for a lighter, healthier alternative to frying. Ideal as a party snack or dinner starter, they can be customized with your favorite spices and herbs, making them a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of paprika (optional)
For Coating and Finishing
- Additional breadcrumbs for coating
- Olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing
- A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat (optional)
- Chopped parsley for freshness (optional)
- Lemon zest for brightness (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked crab meat, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, mayonnaise, finely chopped green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Form Crab Crunchies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Roll each formed piece lightly in extra breadcrumbs to add an extra crunchy texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the crab crunchies on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter to enhance browning and crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crab crunchies are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the crunchies cool for a few minutes. This allows them to firm up, making them easier to handle. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley, lemon zest, or add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick before serving.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs will yield a crunchier texture.
- These crab crunchies can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; bake fresh when ready to serve.
- Customize the seasoning with your favorite herbs and spices, such as Old Bay seasoning or smoked paprika, for added flavor.
- Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Serve with tartar sauce, aioli, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra zest.
- Ensure crab meat is well drained to prevent sogginess.
