If you’re a seafood lover looking for a show-stopping appetizer or party dish, Famous Crab Bombs are sure to become a favorite. These decadent, bite-sized crab-filled pastries offer a perfect balance of flaky crust, rich crab meat, and a savory blend of cheeses and spices. Popularized in seafood restaurants and coastal kitchens, crab bombs are both elegant and satisfying—ideal for entertaining or treating yourself to a luxurious snack.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes Famous Crab Bombs so special, provide a foolproof recipe, and share tips for presentation, serving, and nutrition.
What Are Crab Bombs?
Crab bombs are typically made by stuffing a seasoned crab mixture into dough—often puff pastry or crescent roll dough—then sealing and baking until golden brown. The result is a crisp, buttery exterior that encases a creamy, flavorful crab filling bursting with texture and zest. These bites can be served as appetizers, party snacks, or even a light meal paired with a fresh salad.
Their rich yet balanced flavor profile, combined with a satisfying crunch, makes them irresistible crowd-pleasers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked clean of shells
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or your favorite seafood seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (or puff pastry)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 12 crab bombs
How to Make Famous Crab Bombs
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, shredded cheese, green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and parsley. Mix gently to combine without breaking up the crab meat too much.
3. Prepare the Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles (or squares if using puff pastry). For crescent dough, pinch perforations to seal.
4. Assemble Crab Bombs
Place about 2 tablespoons of crab filling near the wide end of each dough piece. Fold the dough over the filling, sealing edges tightly by pinching or pressing with a fork to prevent leakage.
5. Egg Wash
Brush each crab bomb with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
6. Bake
Arrange the crab bombs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Serve
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Crab Bomb)
Approximate nutritional values:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 420mg
Note: Values can vary depending on the brand of dough and cheese used.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve crab bombs with tangy cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or a spicy remoulade to elevate flavors.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Plating: Arrange crab bombs on a platter lined with lettuce or kale for a pretty presentation at parties.
- Pairing: Complement with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer to balance the richness.
Variations and Tips
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack for a spicy kick or cream cheese for ricotta for a lighter texture.
- Spice It Up: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for heat.
- Dough Alternatives: Try puff pastry for a flakier texture or homemade dough for a rustic feel.
- Make Ahead: Assemble crab bombs in advance and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love Famous Crab Bombs
These crab bombs combine the indulgence of creamy seafood filling with the satisfying crunch of baked dough. They’re simple to prepare yet impressively flavorful, making them ideal for entertaining or a special treat at home. Plus, their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing and portion control.
The rich combination of crab meat, cheese, and spices wrapped in buttery dough hits all the right notes—salty, savory, creamy, and crisp—in every delicious bite.