18 Delicious Crab Appetizer Recipes Irresistible

Carmen Eldridge

April 10, 2025

Are you looking for some delicious and irresistible crab appetizers to impress your guests at your next party or gathering? Look no further! Crab is a popular ingredient in many cuisines, and when combined with other flavors and textures, it can create truly mouthwatering dishes. In this article, we will explore 18 different crab appetizer recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.

From classic combinations like cream cheese and chives to more adventurous pairings like mango and jalapeño, these crab appetizers offer a wide range of flavors and textures to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or rich and decadent, we’ve got you covered with our collection of crab appetizer recipes.

So go ahead and get cracking (pun intended!) on some of these tasty crab appetizers and enjoy the oohs and ahhs from your friends and family.

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent recipe that combines the sweetness of mushrooms with the richness of crab meat.

Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crab and Avocado Crostini

Crab and Avocado Crostini
A refreshing twist on classic canapés, these crab and avocado crostini are perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of fresh crab meat.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
– 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado, crab meat, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Top toasted crostini with the crab and avocado mixture.
5. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Crab Rangoon Dip

Crab Rangoon Dip
This creamy dip combines the flavors of crab rangoon with a rich and tangy sauce, perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of crab rangoon seasoning (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup of real crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, soy sauce, green onions, garlic powder, and crab rangoon seasoning. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the real crab meat and 1/8 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/8 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade

Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab cakes, bursting with succulent lump crab meat and tangy remoulade sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a small ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the crab cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Place the fried crab cakes on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Serve with remoulade sauce.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons

Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons
A delightful fusion of flavors, these crispy wontons are filled with a rich crab and cream cheese mixture, perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 8 oz lump crab meat
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, cream cheese, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point, pressing the edges to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Place wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each wonton.
7. Brush tops with sesame oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Spicy Crab Sushi Rolls

Spicy Crab Sushi Rolls
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this recipe for Spicy Crab Sushi Rolls. Crunchy crab, creamy avocado, and a kick of heat make these rolls a must-try!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked king crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (or to taste)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Short-grain Japanese rice
– Water

Instructions:

1. Prepare sushi-grade short-grain Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired sizes for rolling.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto it, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a slice of avocado, crab meat, and cucumber in the middle of the rice.
5. Spread a small amount of spicy mayo on top of the filling.
6. Roll the sushi using gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into desired portions and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation)

Crab and Corn Fritters

Crab and Corn Fritters
These sweet and savory fritters are a perfect combination of fresh crab, corn, and spices. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a great snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and mayonnaise.
4. Add crab meat and corn kernels to the wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture; stir until a thick batter forms.
6. Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop the batter into the hot oil in batches.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.

Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes total

Garlic Butter Crab Bites

Garlic Butter Crab Bites
A delicious appetizer or snack that combines the richness of butter and garlic with the sweetness of crab.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, softened butter, garlic, and Old Bay seasoning until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each ball.
5. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the crab bites.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crab Stuffed Jalapeños

Crab Stuffed Jalapeños
Get ready to spice up your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab stuffed jalapeños! This recipe combines the sweetness of crab meat with the heat of jalapeño peppers, perfect for a party or gathering.

Ingredients:

– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 1 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the crab mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the jalapeños.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crab and Mango Summer Rolls

Crab and Mango Summer Rolls
Summer rolls are a refreshing twist on traditional wraps, perfect for hot summer days. This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors with succulent crab and juicy mango.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (about 20-25 sheets)
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together crab meat, mango, cilantro, soy sauce, and lime juice.
2. Lay a rice paper wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the crab-mango mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry the summer rolls in hot oil until crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes to prepare and fry the summer rolls.

Crab Louie Salad Cups

Crab Louie Salad Cups
This recipe puts a creative spin on the classic Crab Louie salad, serving it in individual cups for a perfect party or potluck. The combination of juicy crab, crunchy greens, and tangy dressing is sure to please!

Ingredients:

– 1 can (6 oz) lump crab meat
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp. Louie dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– 12 small cups or ramekins

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, lettuce leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
2. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the mixture into each cup.
3. Drizzle with Louie dressing and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation time only)

Crab and Artichoke Dip

Crab and Artichoke Dip
A rich and creamy dip that combines the sweetness of artichokes with the savory flavor of crab, perfect for parties or gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Crab Deviled Eggs

Crab Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs game with this Crab Deviled Eggs recipe! This twist on a classic adds the rich flavor of crab meat, making it perfect for your next brunch or party gathering.

Ingredients:

– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat works well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish until smooth.
3. Stir in the crab meat, being gentle not to break up the lumps.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
6. Garnish with chopped chives or paprika.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus time for hard-boiling eggs)

Crab and Brie Phyllo Cups

Crab and Brie Phyllo Cups
Crab and Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe

A savory twist on the classic phyllo cup, filled with creamy brie and succulent crab meat.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of phyllo dough (thawed)
– 8 oz jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup grated brie cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the phyllo dough into squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. Place a spoonful of melted butter on each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange the crab meat and grated brie cheese in the center of each square.
5. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle, pressing the edges gently to seal.
6. Place the cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Brush the tops with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crab and Cucumber Canapés

Crab and Cucumber Canapés
Elevate your cocktail party or dinner gathering with these elegant and flavorful canapés, featuring succulent crab meat paired with the cooling crunch of cucumber.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cucumber
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 wonton wrappers (about 3 inches square)
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, cucumber, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Bake canapés for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh chives or parsley.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Old Bay Crab Dip

Old Bay Crab Dip
Savor the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with this classic crab dip recipe, featuring the iconic Old Bay seasoning.

Ingredients:

– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat works well)
– 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup of sour cream
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, and salt.
3. Mix until well combined, being careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
4. Stir in the sour cream and lemon juice.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crab and Spinach Stuffed Pastry

Crab and Spinach Stuffed Pastry
Transform your pastry game with this decadent Crab and Spinach Stuffed Pastry! Fresh spinach, succulent crab meat, and flaky pastry come together to create a heavenly treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 4 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together spinach and crab meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a spoonful of the crab and spinach mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Brush the edges with beaten egg. Fold the other half over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with melted butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Crab and Bacon Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Crab and Bacon Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your appetizer game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines succulent cherry tomatoes, savory crab, and crispy bacon. This flavorful dish is perfect for parties or special occasions.

Ingredients:

– 12 large cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, gently combine crab meat, crumbled bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each cherry tomato half with the crab mixture, mounding slightly.
4. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight with these 18 scrumptious crab appetizer recipes! From classic combinations like mini crab cakes and crab rangoon dip, to innovative twists like spicy crab sushi rolls and crab-stuffed jalapeños, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or an impressive party starter, this collection of mouthwatering dishes is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

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