Here is a classic Famous Crab Bombs recipe, restaurant-style and very rich, with clear step-by-step directions. These are all about letting the crab shine.
Famous Crab Bombs
Yield
4 large crab bombs (or 6 smaller)
Total Time
About 35 minutes
Ingredients
Crab Mixture
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1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, picked over for shells
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon melted butter
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1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (optional)
Binding (use sparingly)
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2–3 tablespoons crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
(Just enough to hold together)
Topping
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2 tablespoons melted butter
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Extra Old Bay seasoning, for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Meat
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Gently pick through the crab meat to remove any shell fragments.
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Place crab in a large bowl.
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Be careful not to break up the lumps.
Step 3: Make the Binding Mixture
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In a small bowl, whisk together:
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Mayonnaise
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Dijon mustard
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Old Bay seasoning
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Worcestershire sauce
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Lemon juice
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Melted butter
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Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Gently
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Pour the binding mixture over the crab meat.
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Sprinkle in the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
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Fold very gently using a spatula until just combined.
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Add parsley if using.
Tip: The mixture should barely hold together. If it feels dry, add 1 more tablespoon mayonnaise.
Step 5: Form the Crab Bombs
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Divide mixture into portions.
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Gently shape into mounds or balls.
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Do not pack tightly—light handling keeps them tender.
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Place in prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Add Topping
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Brush the tops with melted butter.
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Lightly sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning.
Step 7: Bake
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
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Tops should be lightly golden and heated through.
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Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra browning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
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Let crab bombs rest for 5 minutes.
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Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
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Garlic butter or drawn butter
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Light remoulade or tartar sauce
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Roasted asparagus or coleslaw
Tips for Authentic “Famous” Style
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Use jumbo lump crab only
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Minimal filler is key
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Avoid overmixing
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Old Bay should enhance, not overpower
Optional Variations
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Add lump crab + a little backfin for budget-friendly version
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Stuff into mushroom caps
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Air fryer method (375°F for 10–12 minutes)