Name: Crab Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Crab Meat (Use lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.); 8 oz Cream Cheese; 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Optionally, roll the balls in extra breadcrumbs for added crunch.); 1/4 cup Green Onions, chopped; 2 tbsp Lemon Juice; 1 tbsp Mustard; 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; Salt and Pepper to taste (Don’t skimp on the seasoning; the more flavorful, the better!)

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy appetizer, look no further than Crab Balls. These little delights are not only bursting with flavor but are also simple to make, meaning you can impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re perfect for busy evenings or gatherings, and the best part? You can customize them to suit your taste!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 180
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg

Why Make Crab Balls

Crab Balls are not just tasty; they also offer health benefits due to the nutritious ingredients like crab meat, which is high in protein and low in fat. Plus, you can add various ingredients to customize them for different tastes or dietary needs, making them extremely versatile. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these Crab Balls will cater to everyone at the table.

How to Make Crab Balls Step by Step

Ingredients

1 lb Crab Meat
8 oz Cream Cheese
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 cup Breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Green Onions, chopped
2 tbsp Lemon Juice
1 tbsp Mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
2 cloves Garlic, minced
Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly. Add the chopped green onions, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and seasoning. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated. Scoop a small amount of the mixture and shape it into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, roll the balls in extra breadcrumbs for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Crab Balls

These Crab Balls are delicious on their own but pair perfectly with a zesty cocktail sauce or creamy ranch dressing. Serve them with a side salad for a complete meal or alongside a charcuterie board to impress your guests. You could even add a light lemon aioli for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store Crab Balls

If you have leftovers, store your Crab Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Just make sure to bake them from frozen, allowing a little extra time for cooking.

Expert Tips for Cooking Crab Balls

Use lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skimp on the seasoning; the more flavorful, the better!
Try adding a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Serve them fresh from the oven for that irresistible crunch.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.

Delicious Variations of Crab Balls

Spicy Crab Balls: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a kick.
Herbed Crab Balls: Incorporate fresh dill or parsley for a refreshing herbaceous flavor.
Citrusy Crab Balls: Mix in some lime zest and juice for a fresh twist.
Vegetarian version: Substitute crab meat with artichokes or chickpeas for a meatless option.

These Crab Balls are an open invitation to enjoy all the delightful flavors paired with simplicity and versatility. Try them out for your next gathering or a cozy night in, and experience their deliciousness firsthand!

Crab Balls

Delicious and easy crab balls that are perfect for appetizers, gatherings, or cozy evenings at home. These bites are customizable and packed with flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb Crab Meat Use lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
8 oz Cream Cheese
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
1 cup Breadcrumbs Optionally, roll the balls in extra breadcrumbs for added crunch.
1/4 cup Green Onions, chopped
2 tbsp Lemon Juice
1 tbsp Mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
2 cloves Garlic, minced
Salt and Pepper to taste Don’t skimp on the seasoning; the more flavorful, the better!

Method

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly.
Add the chopped green onions, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and seasoning. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
Scoop a small amount of the mixture and shape it into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

These Crab Balls are delicious on their own but pair perfectly with zesty cocktail sauce or creamy ranch dressing. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze before baking for up to 3 months.