The tantalizing scent of fresh crab wafts through my kitchen, bringing with it memories of sun-soaked beach days and joyous gatherings. Each time I prepare these Delicious Famous Crab Bombs, I’m reminded of the incredible blend of flavors and textures that make them a standout dish. Imagine a golden-brown exterior giving way to a savory, rich crab filling infused with just the right amount of Old Bay seasoning.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer for your next dinner party or simply a comforting bite to enjoy after a long day, these crowd-pleasing treats won’t disappoint. What’s even better? You can whip them up quickly and make them your own with easy gluten-free and keto adaptations. Say goodbye to boring fast food and hello to your new favorite seafood indulgence!
Why will you love Delicious Famous Crab Bombs?
Flavor-Packed Delight: Bursting with fresh crab, these bombs deliver a savory richness that will impress any seafood lover.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious bites ready in no time.
Versatile Options: Easily adapt the recipe to be gluten-free or keto-friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these crab bombs are sure to be the star of your appetizer spread.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and bake when needed—perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. This make-ahead tip makes them a stress-free choice for any occasion!
Delicious Famous Crab Bombs Ingredients
For the Filling
• Jumbo Lump Crab Meat – Fresh, hand-picked crab is essential; avoid canned options for the best flavor.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and binds the mixture; opt for lighter mayo for a lower-fat version.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent, ensuring that the bomb holds its shape well.
• Dijon Mustard – Introduces a subtle kick; optional for those who prefer a milder flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances the overall depth of flavor; soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
• Lemon Juice – Adds brightness to the crab filling.
• Old Bay Seasoning – Essential for achieving that classic Maryland flavor; adjust according to taste.
• Chives/Green Onions – Adds a mild onion flavor; fresh parsley can be substituted as well.
• Breadcrumbs – Optional for binding; omit for gluten-free or keto adaptations.
For the Topping
• Melted Butter – Drizzled over the bombs for added richness and a lovely golden crust.
These Delicious Famous Crab Bombs are not only a culinary delight but also a perfect way to bring joy to your table!
How to Make Delicious Famous Crab Bombs
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for hassle-free cleanup.
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Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, gently fold together the jumbo lump crab meat, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and chives. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep those lovely crab lumps intact!
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Form Crab Bombs: Wet your hands and scoop out a generous portion of the mixture. Shape it into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each bomb.
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Add Butter: Drizzle melted butter over each crab bomb, ensuring they get that delectable richness and a crispy finish as they bake.
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Bake: Pop them in the oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown with slightly crisp edges.
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Serve: Once baked, allow the crab bombs to cool slightly before serving warm. Pair them with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces for an irresistible experience!
Optional: Serve with a tangy tartar sauce or a refreshing salad for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Delicious Famous Crab Bombs
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Use Fresh Crab: Fresh, hand-picked jumbo lump crab meat is key for the best flavor; avoid canned to preserve taste and texture.
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Gently Fold: Be careful to gently combine the filling ingredients to maintain the delicate lumps of crab; overmixing can lead to dense bombs.
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Adjust Seasoning: Customize the Old Bay seasoning according to your preference; it can be made milder or spicier to suit your taste.
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Crispy Finish: For an extra crunchy texture, broil the crab bombs for the last few minutes of baking; just watch them closely to prevent burning.
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Perfect Timing: Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture; they taste best warm, right out of the oven, as they are part of your new favorite seafood treat!
What to Serve with Delicious Famous Crab Bombs?
Gather your loved ones and prepare for an explosion of flavors with delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience to new heights.
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Zesty Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the crab bombs beautifully.
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Garlic Butter Dip: A warm, savory sauce that takes the crab bomb experience to another level, making each bite even more irresistible.
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Light Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a citrus vinaigrette provide a bright contrast, cutting through the buttery richness of the bombs.
Pair this with toasted almonds for added texture and flavor. -
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: They offer a slightly sweet and crunchy contrast that will satisfy any cravings for comfort food.
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Chilled Chardonnay: This refreshing wine complements the seafood perfectly, enhancing the flavors of the crab while keeping your palate refreshed.
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Creamy Potato Salad: A classic that brings a hearty element to the table. The creaminess contrasts wonderfully with the tender crab bombs—perfect for gatherings.
Variations & Substitutions for Delicious Famous Crab Bombs
Customize your crab bombs to make them even more delightful and unique for your palate!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a fiery explosion of flavor. Spice lovers will appreciate the added warmth!
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Gooey Center: Incorporate cubes of cream cheese or brie into the crab mixture for an indulgent, creamy surprise in each bite. The melty center elevates the flavor experience!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out breadcrumbs for almond flour, or simply omit them entirely. This way, everyone can dive into these delicious bombs without worry.
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Keto-Friendly: Ditch the breadcrumbs and sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese for that cheesy crust while keeping carbs low. A perfect option for those following a keto diet!
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Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to introduce bursts of brightness. The addition of herbs creates a fresh and lively flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.
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Citrus Burst: Zest some lemon or lime into the mixture for a pop of citrus that brightens the overall flavor. Your taste buds will awaken with this refreshing twist!
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Hearty Variations: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinch for a nutritious and colorful boost. Each chewy bite turns into a delightful medley of flavors.
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Tangy Twist: Mix in a bit of capers or pickles for a tangy punch that beautifully complements the rich crab. This tang adds a refreshing contrast that will keep your guests coming back for more!
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Famous Crab Bombs
Fridge: Store leftover crab bombs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
Make-Ahead: Prepare your crab bombs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked crab bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few more minutes to the cooking time.
Serving: The crab bombs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Bake them just before you’re ready to serve for that warm and buttery experience—your guests will love these delicious seafood treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Famous Crab Bombs are a perfect choice for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the crab mixture and form the bombs up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For optimal freshness and flavor, avoid baking until you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to enjoy, just drizzle melted butter over the top and pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality appetizers ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Delicious Famous Crab Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of crab meat should I use for the crab bombs?
Absolutely! Fresh, hand-picked jumbo lump crab meat is essential for making the best crab bombs. I recommend avoiding canned crab meat as it often lacks the rich flavor and tender texture you’ll achieve with fresh crab.
How do I store leftover crab bombs?
Store any leftover crab bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their delicious golden-brown exterior and soft center.
Can I make crab bombs ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare your crab bombs a day in advance. Just form them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Be sure to cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Bake them right before serving for the best results!
How do I freeze uncooked crab bombs?
For freezing, first lay the uncooked crab bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen solid, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, baking straight from frozen.
Can I adapt the recipe for gluten-free or keto diets?
Certainly! To make gluten-free crab bombs, omit the breadcrumbs or replace them with almond flour. For keto versions, skip the breadcrumbs as well and consider using grated Parmesan cheese instead. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious seafood treats!
Delicious Famous Crab Bombs: Your New Favorite Seafood Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for hassle-free cleanup.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, gently fold together the jumbo lump crab meat, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and chives.
- Form Crab Bombs: Wet your hands and scoop out a generous portion of the mixture. Shape it into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Add Butter: Drizzle melted butter over each crab bomb.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the crab bombs to cool slightly before serving warm with lemon wedges.