Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter – The Ultimate Coastal Comfort Snack

There are few things more comforting than a warm cheddar bay biscuit—the cheesy, buttery, garlicky flavor is already enough to make anyone weak in the knees. But when you take those beloved biscuits and elevate them with a creamy, luxurious crab filling, then finish everything with a drizzle of fragrant lemon butter? You suddenly have a show-stopping dish that feels like something straight off the menu of a cozy seaside restaurant.

These crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits with lemon butter are indulgent yet simple, nostalgic yet luxurious. They make the perfect appetizer for holidays, parties, seafood dinners, or any night you want to treat yourself—or impress someone. Imagine biting into a golden biscuit with crisp edges, fluffy interior, and a hidden pocket of warm crab filling seasoned with herbs, garlic, and a touch of Old Bay. As you pull it apart, the filling steams, the cheese stretches, and the biscuit releases that irresistible aroma of butter and herbs.

Then comes the lemon butter. A glossy, silky drizzle of melted butter, brightened with lemon zest and juice, adds depth and freshness that pair beautifully with crab. It cuts through the richness while enhancing every flavor. The result is a bite that is rich but not heavy, balanced but indulgent, comforting yet elegant.

Whether you’re hosting game day, celebrating a special occasion, or creating a stunning seafood starter, these biscuits deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, everything comes together quickly thanks to the convenience of a biscuit mix, while still tasting entirely homemade and unforgettable.

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Ingredients:

Cheddar Bay Biscuits

• 1 box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (plus seasoning packet)
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1/3 cup cold water (or package direction amount)
• 1/3 cup melted butter (for brushing)

Crab Filling

• 8 oz lump crab meat
• 4 oz softened cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt & pepper to taste

Lemon Butter

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Biscuit Dough:
   Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Combine biscuit mix, seasoning packet, cheddar, and water until a soft dough forms.
2. Make the Crab Filling:
   In a bowl, mix cream cheese, crab meat, mayo, lemon juice, zest, Old Bay, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy.
3. Shape the Biscuits:
   Scoop biscuit dough into 10–12 portions. Flatten each piece slightly, add a spoonful of crab filling in the center, and fold dough around it to seal.
4. Bake:
   Place stuffed biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Prepare Lemon Butter:
   Mix melted butter with lemon juice, zest, garlic powder, salt, and parsley.
6. Brush & Serve:
   Brush warm biscuits generously with lemon butter. Serve immediately.

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Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overmix the biscuit dough: This keeps them tender and fluffy.
• Use high-quality crab: Lump or claw meat works best for texture.
• Boost flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the crab filling.
• Keep filling chilled: Cold filling helps the biscuits hold shape during baking.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the biscuits and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

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Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Garlic Lover’s: Double the garlic in the filling and glaze.
• Herb Explosion: Add dill, chives, or tarragon to complement the crab.
• Southwestern Twist: Use pepper jack cheese and add chipotle to the filling.
• Mini Party Bites: Roll smaller dough balls for bite-size appetizers.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with lemon wedges and extra melted butter.
• Add as a side to chowder, seafood pasta, or grilled fish.
• Pair with sparkling wine or crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Perfect for brunch boards with shrimp cocktail and smoked salmon.

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Storage Information

• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked biscuits for up to 2 months; bake from frozen.
• Reheat: Warm in oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving—it softens the biscuit.

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FAQ

Can I use canned crab?
Yes, but make sure it’s drained well. Fresh lump crab gives the best flavor.

Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Absolutely—any drop biscuit dough works.

Can I make them larger?
Yes! Just extend baking time 3–4 minutes.

Can I air-fry them?
Yes—air-fry at 370°F for 8–10 minutes until golden.

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History / Fun Facts

Cheddar bay biscuits have become a modern classic thanks to their signature cheesy, garlicky flavor. They’re so popular that they’ve developed a cult following far beyond restaurant walls. Crab stuffing, meanwhile, traces back to coastal American cooking—particularly Maryland and the Carolinas—where seafood and biscuits were everyday staples. Combining the two creates a nostalgic comfort dish with a delightful seafood twist. The lemon butter echoing classic seafood pairings rounds it out into a dish that feels coastal, indulgent, and timeless.