Description
Irresistible Crab Crunchies are a quick and easy seafood appetizer that’s baked to golden perfection. Made with precooked crab meat mixed with crunchy breadcrumbs, cheese, and flavorful seasonings, these bite-sized delights are perfect for parties or as a delicious starter. Oven-baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter yet crispy texture. Customizable with spices, herbs, and optional heat, these make-ahead crunchies are sure to impress your guests.
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, chopped green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Form Patties: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Roll each lightly in additional breadcrumbs to add extra crunch.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the formed crab crunchies evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush each with olive oil or melted butter to promote browning and crispiness during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crunchies are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the crab crunchies cool for a few minutes. This helps them firm up slightly, making them easier to handle and enhancing the texture. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley and lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness.
- Make ahead and refrigerate the formed patties before baking to save time.
- Customize flavor with added herbs, spices, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce for extra zest.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
