A flavor-packed seafood classic perfect for parties or date nights!
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:4–6 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Lactose
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup cream cheese, softened
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or your fave seafood spice blend)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (plus more for topping)
2 tbsp chopped parsley (plus extra for garnish)
½ cup shredded cheddar (optional, for cheesy kick)
Salt & pepper, to taste
4–6 cleaned crab shells or ramekins for serving
Instructions
Mix the Crab Filling: In a large bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayo, cream cheese, egg, mustard, seasonings, and parsley. Go easy while mixing to keep those juicy crab chunks intact—this mix is your secret weapon for serious flavor.
Add Cheesy Boost (Optional): For that extra melty magic, mix in shredded cheddar. Trust me, this takes your stuffed crab to crave-worthy comfort food levels.
Stuff & Shape: Spoon the mixture generously into cleaned crab shells or ramekins, forming nice mounds. This easy seafood upgrade instantly turns simple crab into a party-ready showstopper.
Top & Bake: Sprinkle lightly with smoked paprika for color and flavor. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until golden on top and heated through. You’ll smell that rich seafood aroma before it even hits the plate!
Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh parsley and serve hot. Perfect with lemon wedges, hot sauce, or creamy dip on the side for the ultimate seafood snack.