Famous Crab Bombs Recipe
If you're a seafood lover, Crab Bombs are a must-try dish that will steal your heart and taste buds. These oversized, jumbo lump crab cakes are packed with pure crab meat, seasoned just right, and broiled to golden perfection. Inspired by the legendary Maryland-style preparation, these crab bombs are famous for one reason: they're mostly crab—no fillers, no fuss, just bold coastal flavor.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula or spoon
- Measuring Spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Oven with broil setting
- Fish spatula (optional but helpful)
Ingredients
For the Crab Bombs:
- 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat fresh or pasteurized, drained and picked for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs just enough to bind
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional
For Serving (Optional):
- Lemon wedges
- Tartar sauce or remoulade
- Buttered rolls if serving as sandwiches
- Mixed greens or coleslaw
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Crab Meat
- Carefully examine the crab meat and remove any stray shells. Be gentle to avoid breaking the lump pieces—those big, sweet chunks are the star of the show.
Step 2: Make the Binding Mixture
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, and the beaten egg until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Without Overmixing
- Gently fold in the crab meat and crushed crackers using a rubber spatula or your hands. Be very careful not to overmix—you want to keep the lumps intact. The mixture should be moist and just hold together. If it feels too wet, add a pinch more cracker crumbs.
Step 4: Shape the Bombs
- Divide the mixture into 4 large portions and shape them into round, slightly flattened mounds—like baseballs. Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
- Preheat your oven’s broiler on high. Place the crab bombs on the top rack (about 5–6 inches from the heat source) and broil for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown on top and heated through. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Tip: If your broiler runs too hot, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes instead, until lightly browned.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a minute. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce. These crab bombs go great with coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or on top of a salad.