Famous Crab Bombs are a Maryland-style seafood delicacy that celebrates the rich, sweet flavor of lump crab meat with minimal filler. Unlike traditional crab cakes, these crab bombs are larger, packed with fresh crab, and lightly bound with flavorful ingredients to enhance rather than overpower the seafood. Typically oven-roasted or broiled, they maintain a tender, flaky texture while developing a golden-brown crust. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers who appreciate the purity of crab flavor with a touch of seasoning and butter.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lump crab meat (preferably Maryland blue crab, carefully checked for shells)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (adds moisture and richness)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a mild tang)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (for umami depth)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (to brighten and balance flavors)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for color and freshness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs (minimal binder)
- 2 tbsp melted butter or neutral oil (for basting before baking)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crab Meat
Gently place the crab meat in a large bowl. Carefully examine it for shells and cartilage. Since lump crab is delicate, try not to break up the pieces. Set aside while you prepare the binder mixture.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. This will serve as your flavor-packed binding base.
Step 3: Combine and Season
Pour the wet mixture over the crab meat. Add in the chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula or your hands. Be patient and slow to preserve the crab lumps.
Step 4: Add the Binder
Sprinkle in the crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs. Fold them in gently just until the mixture holds together. You don’t want to over-mix—this should remain loose and crab-heavy, not doughy.
Step 5: Form and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Shape the crab mixture into 2–4 large round mounds (like small bombs) and place them on the sheet. Brush each crab bomb with the melted butter or oil to enhance browning and flavor.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden on top and heated through. If you prefer a crispier exterior, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the crab bombs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a side of coleslaw for a complete seafood experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✅ Minimal Filler, Maximum Crab Flavor – A true celebration of lump crab meat.
✅ Golden & Crispy Exterior – Perfectly baked or broiled for a delicate crunch.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients with a stunning result.
✅ Perfect for Special Occasions – Impress guests with restaurant-quality seafood.
These Famous Crab Bombs bring the best of Maryland seafood straight to your kitchen. Would you serve them with a side of garlic butter or a fresh salad? 🦀✨
You can explore more variations here.