Description
This Crab Balls Recipe features tender lump crab meat combined with flavorful seasonings and lightly coated breadcrumbs, then either fried or baked to golden perfection. Perfectly crisp on the outside and delicately soft on the inside, these crab balls make an ideal appetizer for any occasion, served with tartar sauce or lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 8 ounces lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Vegetable oil for frying (or baking option)
- Tartar sauce or lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, gently mix the lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, lemon juice, and chopped parsley until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.
- Form Crab Balls: Scoop the mixture and roll into 1 1/2-inch balls, making about 12–14 crab balls. Optionally, roll each ball lightly in additional breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Fry Crab Balls: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the crab balls in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and heated through. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.
- Bake Crab Balls (Optional): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place crab balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with oil. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and firm.
- Serve: Serve the crab balls warm with tartar sauce or lemon wedges for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier twist, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Crab balls can be prepped ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before cooking.
- Ensure oil temperature stays consistent when frying to maintain crispiness without absorbing excess oil.
