Crab Crunchies – The Ultimate Crispy Seafood Snack You’ll Crave

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crab Crunchies offer the ideal combination of creamy, cheesy filling and a crispy, golden crust. The savory crab, combined with mozzarella cheese and green onions, creates a rich flavor that’s enhanced by the bold seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. The best part? You can choose your preferred cooking method: bake them for a lighter option, air-fry for a quick and crispy result, or pan-fry them for a rich, golden crust. No matter how you prepare them, these Crab Crunchies are sure to become a favorite for seafood lovers and snack enthusiasts alike!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (8 oz) package imitation crab meat, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Cooking spray or oil, for baking or frying
• Optional: chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the crab: If using real crab, chop it finely. If using imitation crab, simply chop it into small pieces.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped crab, shredded mozzarella, green onions, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Shape the Crab Crunchies: Using a scoop or spoon, shape the mixture into small balls or flatten them into nugget shapes.
4. Cooking Methods:
   • To bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the crab crunchies on a parchment-lined baking tray and spray them lightly with oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
   • To air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the crab crunchies in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden.
   • To pan fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab crunchies for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they are crisp and golden brown.
5. Serve: Serve the warm crab crunchies with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings. Garnish with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings

Variations

• Spicy Crab Crunchies: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick of heat.
• Cheese Variety: Swap out the mozzarella cheese for a sharper cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a more intense flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian-style breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to the mixture for a burst of freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Crab Crunchies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the crunchies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again. Alternatively, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F for the perfect crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab?

Yes, you can use real crab meat if you prefer. Just be sure to chop it finely before adding it to the mixture.

2. Can I make these Crab Crunchies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the crunchies ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

3. Can I freeze Crab Crunchies?

Yes, you can freeze them before cooking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. To cook, bake or air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. Can I make these without the cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you prefer a lighter version. However, the cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture together, so be sure to adjust the recipe as needed.

5. Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can use yellow mustard or even spicy mustard if you prefer a different flavor.

6. How can I make these Crab Crunchies more flavorful?

You can increase the amount of garlic powder or onion powder for a stronger flavor, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

7. Can I make these in the oven without oil?

Yes, you can bake the Crab Crunchies without oil. Just make sure to place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.

8. What’s the best way to serve Crab Crunchies?

Crab Crunchies are great on their own as a snack, but they pair perfectly with dipping sauces like tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a spicy aioli.

9. How do I know when the Crab Crunchies are done?

The Crab Crunchies are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you’re baking or air frying, keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to make more Crab Crunchies for a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, depending on how many you’re making.

Conclusion

Crab Crunchies are the perfect crispy seafood snack that’s packed with savory flavors and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re baking, air-frying, or pan-frying, these delicious bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering. With melty cheese, tender crab meat, and a blend of seasonings, they make for a fun appetizer or a tasty snack for any occasion. Simple to make and customizable with your favorite ingredients, these Crab Crunchies will quickly become a crowd favorite!

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