Are you tired of throwing away that delicious leftover crab from last night’s dinner? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes to help you use up every last morsel of crab meat. From classic dishes like crab cakes and chowder, to innovative creations like crab-stuffed mushrooms and quesadillas, we’ve got something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of leftover crab and show you how to turn it into a variety of tasty meals that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your cooking routine, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So let’s dive in and start exploring the many delicious ways you can use leftover crab!
Crab and Avocado Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of avocado with the succulence of crab, all tied together with a zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 8 oz lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine avocado, crab meat, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, so feel free to prepare it just before serving.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner party with these indulgent crab stuffed mushrooms, packed with flavorful jumbo lump crab meat and savory herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, butter, parsley, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Top each mushroom with cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish gets a decadent twist with the addition of succulent crab meat. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
5. Add the crab meat, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the crab is fully incorporated and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Corn Chowder
A creamy and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Crab and Corn Chowder combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of fresh crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add corn kernels, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream and milk. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add crab meat and chicken broth. Simmer until heated through, about 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
A classic Lowcountry dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Crab Cakes:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
For the Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a round cake.
4. Place cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle tops with mayonnaise.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix Remoulade Sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
7. Serve crab cakes with Remoulade Sauce and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crab and Cheese Quesadillas
Crab and Cheese Quesadillas: A Seafood Twist on a Classic Recipe
These indulgent quesadillas combine the sweetness of fresh crab with the creaminess of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, cheese, and green onions.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the crab mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crab Bisque with Sherry
Rich and decadent, this Crab Bisque with Sherry is a luxurious treat that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. With its velvety texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup dry sherry
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in sherry, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stir in crab meat and cook until warmed through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent twist on classic stuffed shells. A delicate balance of succulent crab, wilted spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese makes for a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (8 oz) container ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, crab meat, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the crab mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Top shells with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Louie Salad
Crab Louie Salad Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of the sea with this classic Crab Louie Salad recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 large tomato, diced
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, celery, bell pepper, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Mix well.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide the mixed greens among four plates or bowls.
4. Spoon the crab salad on top of the greens.
5. Top each plate with diced tomato.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Crab and Artichoke Dip
A delicious and addictive dip perfect for your next gathering or party. This recipe combines the richness of crab meat with the subtle sweetness of artichokes, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 cup of lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup of canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, and chives. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in crab meat, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Asparagus Quiche
This quiche is a delightful combination of succulent crab meat, fresh asparagus, and creamy eggs, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh asparagus
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the asparagus until tender. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the crab meat, chopped asparagus, and grated cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine.
6. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls
Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls: A Twist on a Classic
Elevate your party or snack game with these addictive Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls! Soft, crispy egg rolls filled with creamy crab rangoon goodness will be the star of any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup of cream cheese softened
– 1/4 cup of lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cream cheese, crab meat, soy sauce, and green onions until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the filling inside.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the egg rolls for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes to fry all the egg rolls
Crab and Shrimp Étouffée
Étouffée is a classic Louisiana dish that combines the flavors of crab, shrimp, and spices with a rich roux-based sauce. This recipe is a seafood lover’s dream come true!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and Cajun seasoning; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and shrimp; cook until pink and heated through.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine crab-shrimp mixture with sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons
Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons: A Delicate Balance of Flavors
These bite-sized wontons are a perfect combination of succulent crab meat, creamy cream cheese, and crispy wrapper. Serve them as an appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 3 tablespoons softened cream cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, and soy sauce until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/2 teaspoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. 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. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook the wontons in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Crab and Mango Summer Rolls
These refreshing summer rolls combine succulent crab meat with sweet and tangy mango, all wrapped up in a crispy rice paper wrapper. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Rice paper wrappers (about 20-25 sheets)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, mango, and chopped shrimp (if using).
2. Add soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil; mix well.
3. 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.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as these are a cold appetizer/snack.
Crab and Corn Fritters
Add a touch of coastal flavor to your snack game with these crispy and savory crab and corn fritters. Perfect for a quick appetizer or as a side dish, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, corn kernels, flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add melted butter and lightly beaten egg to the mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil (about 1/4 cupfuls).
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove fritters from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crab and Gruyère Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent crab and Gruyère stuffed chicken recipe, featuring tender poultry packed with rich flavors from the coast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, Gruyère cheese, olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the crab mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab and Pesto Flatbread Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of succulent crab, vibrant pesto, and crispy flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 flatbread crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread crust to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with crab meat, breaking it up slightly to distribute evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the crab and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the crab is heated through.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover crab with these delicious recipes! From classic dishes like Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce and Crab Louie Salad to innovative ideas like Crab and Cheese Quesadillas and Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls, there’s something for every seafood lover. Also featured are hearty options like Crab Fried Rice and Crab and Corn Chowder, as well as elegant choices like Crab Bisque with Sherry and Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a special meal, these 18 recipes will inspire you to get cooking!
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