Famous Crab Bombs
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
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Yield: Serves 4 (makes about 4 large crab bombs)
Recipe Intensity:
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Difficulty Level: Moderate
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Skill Required: Intermediate
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Best For: Seafood lovers, family dinners, special occasions
Introduction: What are Crab Bombs?
Crab Bombs are an iconic seafood delicacy, packed with lump crab meat and very little filler. Originally made famous by Maryland seafood houses, these golden, oven-baked mounds explode with flavor—hence the name “Crab Bomb.” Moist, buttery, and rich with Old Bay seasoning, they’re perfect for those who want the taste of the sea without the fuss of shells or complicated preparation.
This recipe brings the authentic taste of the East Coast right to your kitchen with simple ingredients and an easy method that preserves the delicate sweetness of fresh crab.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) jumbo lump crab meat (preferably fresh or refrigerated, not canned)
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for a milder taste)
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1 large egg, beaten
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 ½ teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
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¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for topping, optional)
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
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1 green onion, finely chopped
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Dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper (for heat lovers)
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A touch of garlic powder or celery seed for added flavor depth
Tools You’ll Need
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Large mixing bowl
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Small mixing bowl
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Baking sheet or oven-safe baking dish
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Parchment paper or nonstick spray
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Pastry brush (for butter)
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Spatula or hands for forming the bombs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crab Meat
Start by gently picking over the crab meat to remove any bits of shell or cartilage. Be careful not to break up the large chunks; the texture is what makes Crab Bombs special.
Pro Tip: Do not over-handle the crab. The more intact the lumps, the more luxurious the final result.
Step 2: Make the Binding Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together:
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Mayonnaise
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Mustard
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Beaten egg
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Worcestershire sauce
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Old Bay seasoning
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Lemon juice
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Chopped parsley
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Salt and pepper to taste
Mix until fully combined into a creamy, flavorful base.
Step 3: Combine with Crab
Place the crab meat in a large bowl. Gently fold the binding mixture into the crab using a spatula or clean hands. Be very delicate to avoid breaking the lumps.
Once the mixture starts to come together, sprinkle in the panko breadcrumbs gradually. Use just enough to help the mixture hold its shape. Avoid overmixing or it may become dense.
Step 4: Form the Crab Bombs
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently shape into large, round mounds—like oversized meatballs, but looser and lighter.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or greased baking dish, spaced slightly apart.
Step 5: Add Optional Topping
For extra crunch and a golden top, sprinkle each bomb lightly with a pinch of panko breadcrumbs and brush with melted butter.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the crab bombs for 18–22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and warmed through. They should be firm enough to hold their shape but still moist and tender inside.
Optional Finishing Touch: For a crispier top, broil the bombs on high for the last 1–2 minutes—but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve Hot & Fresh
Carefully remove from the oven and let them sit for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, or a dash of extra Old Bay. Serve with:
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Buttered corn on the cob
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Roasted potatoes
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Garden salad
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Tartar sauce or remoulade
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Crab Bomb)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Cholesterol | 110mg |
⚠️ Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact brands used and add-ins included.