15 Tasty Crab Seafood Recipes

Crab Seafood Recipes are a delicious way to bring the taste of the ocean to your table, whether you love them steamed, baked, or in a creamy dip. Known for its sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture, crab is a favorite ingredient in a variety of cuisines around the world—from the spicy street food of Southeast Asia to the elegant crab cakes of the American East Coast. In this article, you’ll discover 15 tasty crab dishes that highlight the versatility of this prized seafood. From classic comfort foods to bold, creative twists, these recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something fresh and flavorful.

Crab Seafood Recipes

1. Classic Maryland Crab Cakes

Description:
Classic Maryland crab cakes are a beloved coastal dish known for their rich, savory flavor and delicate texture. Made with lump crab meat, minimal filler, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning, these crab cakes are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they’re typically served with a side of tartar sauce or a simple lemon wedge.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp butter or oil (for frying)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 4 servings):

• Calories: ~250

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 14g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fiber: 0.5g

• Sodium: 580mg

This dish is high in protein and flavor, making it a satisfying seafood favorite that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

2. Creamy Crab Dip

Description:
Creamy crab dip is a rich, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or cozy evenings at home. This warm, cheesy dip blends lump crab meat with cream cheese, sour cream, and savory seasonings for a luxurious flavor. Serve it with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping—it’s always a hit.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 8 oz lump crab meat

• Chopped parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 6 servings):

• Calories: ~280

• Protein: 11g

• Fat: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 4g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sodium: 450mg

Warm, melty, and packed with flavor, this creamy crab dip is an easy yet indulgent seafood favorite.

3. Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms

Description:
Crab-stuffed mushrooms are a savory and elegant appetizer that combines tender mushroom caps with a rich, flavorful crab filling. These bite-sized treats are ideal for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or whenever you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The creamy crab mixture is seasoned to perfection and baked until golden.

Ingredients:

• 20 large white or cremini mushrooms (stems removed)

• 8 oz lump crab meat

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp chopped green onions or parsley (optional)

• Olive oil (for brushing mushroom caps)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 6 servings):

• Calories: ~150

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 11g

• Carbohydrates: 4g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 300mg

These crab-stuffed mushrooms are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite—perfect for starting any meal or serving as a party snack.

4. Garlic Butter Crab Legs

Description:
Garlic butter crab legs are a decadent and simple way to enjoy crab at its finest. Steamed or baked until tender, the crab legs are then drenched in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that enhances their natural sweetness. Perfect for special dinners or seafood feasts, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs crab legs (king or snow crab)

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 4 servings):

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 3g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sodium: 900mg

Buttery, garlicky, and irresistible, these crab legs are best enjoyed with your hands and plenty of napkins.

5. Spicy Crab Pasta

Description:
Spicy crab pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that pairs tender crab meat with al dente pasta and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. This Italian-inspired recipe combines garlic, olive oil, and a hint of lemon for a light yet luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the crab. It’s a quick, elegant meal for any seafood lover.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 8 oz lump crab meat

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• Grated Parmesan (optional for serving)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 4 servings):

• Calories: ~410

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 14g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 450mg

Light, zesty, and just the right amount of spicy, this crab pasta makes for a satisfying and impressive meal in under 30 minutes.

6. Thai Crab Fried Rice

Description:
Thai crab fried rice is a fragrant and satisfying dish that brings together fluffy jasmine rice, sweet crab meat, and classic Thai seasonings. It’s quick to prepare, deeply flavorful, and makes an excellent one-pan meal. Often served with cucumber slices, lime wedges, and a drizzle of fish sauce, it strikes the perfect balance of savory, citrusy, and slightly sweet.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled)

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 8 oz lump crab meat

• 2 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp white pepper

• 2 green onions, chopped

• Lime wedges and cucumber slices (for serving)

• Optional: chopped cilantro or Thai chili slices

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 4 servings):

• Calories: ~390

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 48g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 600mg

With its aromatic flavors and delicate crab meat, Thai crab fried rice is a delicious twist on a beloved takeout favorite.

7. Crab and Corn Chowder

Description:
Crab and corn chowder is a creamy, comforting soup that blends the sweetness of corn with tender crab meat in a rich, savory broth. This cozy dish is perfect for chilly evenings and makes a hearty lunch or dinner. With a touch of cream, herbs, and vegetables, it offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 2 cups chicken or seafood broth

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 1/2 tsp thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 8 oz lump crab meat

• Optional garnish: chopped chives, parsley, or crumbled bacon

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 4 servings):

• Calories: ~370

• Protein: 18g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 580mg

Rich, sweet, and savory, this crab and corn chowder is a satisfying way to enjoy seafood in a bowl.

8. Baked Crab-Stuffed Salmon

Description:
Baked crab-stuffed salmon is an elegant, protein-packed dish that combines two seafood favorites into one show-stopping entrée. Tender salmon fillets are filled with a savory crab mixture, then baked until perfectly flaky. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home and perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (skinless, with a slit in the center for stuffing)

• 8 oz lump crab meat

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

• Olive oil (for brushing)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 4 servings):

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: 38g

• Fat: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 3g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sodium: 540mg

This baked crab-stuffed salmon delivers rich flavors and impressive presentation, making it an ideal centerpiece for any seafood lover’s table.

9. Crab Rangoon

Description:
Crab Rangoon is a popular appetizer often found on Chinese takeout menus. These crispy, golden-brown wontons are filled with a creamy mixture of crab meat, cream cheese, and savory seasonings, then deep-fried to perfection. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the rich, cheesy filling makes them a favorite party snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 4 oz lump crab meat

• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 12-16 wonton wrappers

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Sweet and sour sauce (for dipping)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 6 servings, 2 Crab Rangoon per serving):

• Calories: ~190

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 14g

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 420mg

Crispy, creamy, and loaded with flavor, Crab Rangoon is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

10. Cajun Crab Boil

Description:
A Cajun crab boil is a fun, flavorful seafood feast that brings the bold spices of Louisiana to your table. This dish is a mix of fresh crab, corn, potatoes, and sausage, all seasoned with Cajun spices and boiled together to create a mouthwatering, savory meal. It’s a hands-on dish that’s perfect for gatherings and celebrations, offering a satisfying combination of flavors and textures in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh crab (king, snow, or blue crab)

• 4 small red potatoes, halved

• 2 ears of corn, broken into halves

• 1 lb smoked sausage, cut into 2-inch pieces

• 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning

• 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning

• 1 lemon, halved

• 6 cloves garlic, smashed

• 1 bay leaf

• 6 cups water

• 2 tbsp butter (optional, for serving)

• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – makes 4 servings):

• Calories: ~600

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 30g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fiber: 6g

• Sodium: 1,200mg

This Cajun crab boil offers a satisfying and flavorful feast, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

FAQ

1. What type of crab meat is best for these recipes?

For most recipes, fresh lump crab meat is ideal as it has a sweet, delicate flavor and a tender texture. You can also use canned crab meat, but fresh or frozen crab is recommended for the best results.

2. Can I use imitation crab for these recipes?

While imitation crab (surimi) can be used as a substitute, it lacks the natural sweetness and texture of real crab meat. For the best flavor and quality, real crab meat is preferred.

3. Can I make these crab recipes in advance?

Yes, many of these crab recipes, like Crab Cakes or Crab Dip, can be prepared in advance. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook or serve. Be sure to follow proper storage guidelines to maintain freshness.

4. Are these crab seafood recipes suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Many of these recipes can be made gluten-free with simple substitutions. For example, use gluten-free breadcrumbs in crab cakes, and ensure any sauces or condiments are gluten-free. Always check labels for hidden gluten in processed ingredients.