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Close-up of crispy crab balls on a plate with lemon wedges, dipping sauces, and fresh herbs in a modern kitchen.

Crispy Crab Balls Recipe

Meriam
These crispy, golden crab balls are flavorful, bite-sized seafood delights made with lump crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or seafood side dish, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 crab balls
Calories 90 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Crab Balls:

  • 8 oz lump crab meat drained, shells removed
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • For Frying Optional:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for coating
  • 1/2 cup flour for dredging
  • 1 egg beaten (for dredging)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Crab Mixture

  • In a bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Old Bay, garlic powder, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  • Gently mix until well combined, being careful not to break the crab meat too much.
  • Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to help the mixture firm up.

Step 2: Shape the Crab Balls

  • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into small balls.
  • If frying, roll each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Cook the Crab Balls

  • ✅ For Frying:
  • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Fry crab balls for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  • ✅ For Baking:
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place crab balls on a lined baking sheet and spray lightly with oil.
  • Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
  • ✅ For Air Frying:
  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place crab balls in a single layer and air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Serve warm with tartar sauce, remoulade, or cocktail sauce.

Notes

Want extra crunch? Double-coat with panko before frying.
Prefer spicy? Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Keyword crab balls recipe, crispy seafood appetizer, best crab bites, easy crab ball recipe, fried crab balls.