For this scrumptious Famous Crab Bombs recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or pasteurized)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Famous Crab Bombs:
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Grease a baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley until smooth.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the jumbo lump crab meat and crushed crackers, taking care not to break up the crab lumps—keep the mixture chunky.
- Step 5: Shape the mixture into 4 large balls and gently place them in the prepared baking dish. Ensure they are firm but not packed too tightly.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and the centers are set.
- Step 7: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra parsley.
Pro Tips for Making Crab Bombs
- For the freshest flavor, use fresh crab meat instead of pasteurized. If you must use pasteurized, ensure it’s high-quality.
- Be gentle when mixing the crab meat to preserve the lumpiness; this will give your crab bombs a delightful texture.
- To avoid dryness, do not overbake the crab bombs. They should be golden brown on top and just firm to the touch.
- Experiment with seasonings! You can add some hot sauce or a dash of cayenne for an extra kick.
- Pair your crab bombs with a tangy dipping sauce like remoulade or a spicy aioli for an added flavor dimension.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh?
Yes, if it’s what you have on hand. However, fresh or pasteurized crab meat will provide better flavor and texture.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I freeze crab bombs?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked crab bombs. Just shape them, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag or container once solid. Bake from frozen, adjusting the time as necessary.
4. What can I serve with crab bombs?
These crab bombs pair well with lemon wedges, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
5. Is it possible to make these crab bombs gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of these delicious crab bombs.
Conclusion
Famous Crab Bombs are a fantastic addition to any seafood lover’s repertoire. With their crispy exterior and succulent, flavorful crab filling, they’re sure to impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy making these easy yet elegant crab bombs at your next gathering and experience a taste of the ocean from the comfort of your home!
