Crab Crunchies – Crispy, Creamy, and Irresistibly Snackable

Crab Crunchies are one of those appetizers that disappear almost as soon as they hit the table. Crispy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent comfort food and party-ready finger food. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a holiday appetizer spread, or just craving something a little special, these little bites deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

The magic of Crab Crunchies lies in their texture. A rich, creamy crab filling made with cream cheese, melty mozzarella, and delicate lump crab meat is rolled into bite-sized portions and coated in a crunchy crumb mixture. Once baked, they turn golden and crisp, while the inside stays soft and luxurious. Each bite gives you that satisfying crunch followed by a creamy, seafood-forward finish.

These bites are also wonderfully versatile. They can be served as a stand-alone appetizer, paired with dipping sauces, or even added to a seafood platter. They’re elegant enough for special occasions but easy enough to make for a casual weekend treat. Best of all, they can be prepped ahead, making them a stress-free option when entertaining.

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Ingredients:

• 8 oz lump crab meat, drained and picked over
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup green onions, finely sliced
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 cup crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
4. In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
5. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture and gently roll into a ball.
6. Roll each ball in the crumb mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
7. Place the coated balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
8. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm.

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Tips & Tricks

• Use lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overmix the crab to keep the filling light and tender.
• For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray before baking.

Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Swap mozzarella for pepper jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cocktail sauce, remoulade, or garlic aioli.
• Pair with lemon wedges for a fresh finish.
• Add to a seafood appetizer board with shrimp and oysters.

Storage Information

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
• Unbaked crunchies can be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQ

• Can I fry these instead of baking? Yes, shallow frying works well, but baking keeps them lighter.
• Can I use imitation crab? Yes, though real crab provides better flavor.
• Are these good for parties? Absolutely—they’re bite-sized and crowd-friendly.

History / Fun Facts
Crab-based appetizers have long been popular in coastal regions, where fresh seafood is celebrated in simple, shareable forms. Crab Crunchies are a modern twist on classic crab balls and crab cakes, designed to be smaller, crispier, and perfect for snacking.