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Best Crunchy Crab Bombs Made with Jumbo Lump Crab

These Crispy Crab Bombs are a simple yet impressive seafood appetizer made with jumbo lump crab meat for maximum flavor and texture. Lightly seasoned and shaped into bite-sized portions, they bake or air-fry to a beautiful golden crunch while staying tender and juicy inside. Because they use very little filler, the natural sweetness of the crab really stands out—giving you that restaurant-style quality without the extra work.

Perfect for holidays, special occasions, party platters, or anytime you’re craving a seafood treat, these crab bombs come together quickly and can be served with your favorite dipping sauces. Ready in under an hour, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lump crab meat shells removed
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs plus extra for coating
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • Oil spray for air fryer or baking

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and egg.
  2. Gently fold in crab meat, breadcrumbs, and parsley until just combined. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
  3. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized portions and roll each one lightly in extra breadcrumbs for added crispiness.
  4. Place the crab bombs on a plate and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to help them firm up.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), or oven if baking.
  6. Lightly spray the crab bombs with oil and arrange them in the air fryer basket or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Air fry for 10-12 minutes or bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh or high-quality pasteurized jumbo lump crab meat and avoid overmixing.
  • Don’t skip the chilling step—this helps maintain shape and improves crispiness.
  • You can prep these ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for future use.
  • Use an air fryer for an ultra-crispy texture with less oil.
  • Serve with a variety of dipping sauces and lemon wedges to elevate presentation and flavor.