Crab Cake Poppers Recipe That’s Bite-Sized and Golden

Crab cake poppers convert the classic seafood appetizer into bite-sized delights that spark culinary excitement.

These miniature morsels pack an incredible punch of maritime flavor and texture.

Small yet mighty, they represent a playful reinvention of traditional seafood preparations.

Each crispy exterior gives way to a succulent, tender interior bursting with delicate crab meat and aromatic seasonings.

The magic lies in their compact size, which intensifies every single ingredient’s contribution to the overall taste experience.

Perfect for gatherings or solo indulgence, these poppers elevate entertaining with minimal effort and maximum impact.

Guests will be captivated by their irresistible combination of crunch, richness, and oceanic essence.

Crab Cake Poppers: What’s So Addictive

• Savor Bite-Sized Seafood Bliss: These crab cake poppers transform classic crab cakes into perfectly portioned, crispy appetizers that burst with flavor in every single bite.
• Quick and Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter: Requiring only 30 minutes of prep and minimal cooking time, these poppers are an effortless way to impress guests with minimal kitchen stress.
• Texture Sensation: Enjoy the delightful contrast between the crunchy golden-brown panko exterior and the creamy, tender crab meat interior that melts in your mouth with each delectable pop.
• Flavor-Packed Seafood Experience: The combination of Old Bay seasoning, fresh crab, tangy lemon, and rich cream cheese creates a symphony of coastal flavors that elevates this simple appetizer into a gourmet treat.

What You’ll Need for Crab Cake Poppers

• Crab Meat: Sweet and delicate seafood that forms the primary flavor of the poppers, best when fresh or high-quality lump crab.
• Cream Cheese: Creamy base that helps bind ingredients and adds rich texture.
• Egg: Essential binding agent that helps hold the mixture together.
• Mozzarella: Mild cheese that provides extra melting texture and richness.

• Old Bay Seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend that adds signature maritime flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Tangy condiment that deepens umami and savory notes.
• Lemon Juice: Bright citrus that cuts through richness and enhances seafood flavor.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides depth and traditional seafood complement.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings for balanced taste.
• Chives: Fresh herb that adds mild onion-like flavor and green color.
• Parsley: Garnish herb that provides fresh, green visual appeal.
• Parmesan Cheese: Salty, aged cheese for final garnish and extra flavor.

• Breadcrumbs: Panko and regular breadcrumbs for crispy exterior and structural support.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy base for aioli and helps bind ingredients.
• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil for deep frying and creating golden crispy exterior.

Steps to Cook Crab Cake Poppers

Step 1: Prepare Creamy Crab Mixture

• Crab meat
• Mozzarella cheese
• Minced garlic
• Chives
• Breadcrumbs

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Shape and Freeze Poppers

Roll the mixture into 1-inch round balls. Coat each ball completely with remaining panko breadcrumbs. Place the poppers on a tray and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Create Zesty Aioli

• Remaining chives
• Mayonnaise
• Lemon juice
• Old Bay seasoning

Add a pinch of pepper for extra kick.

Step 4: Fry and Serve Poppers

Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Carefully fry the crab poppers in batches until they turn golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately with the prepared aioli on the side.

Tips for Golden Crab Cake Poppers

• Chill for Crispiness: Freezing the crab cake balls helps them hold together and creates a perfectly crispy exterior when fried.
• Use Fresh Crab: Choose high-quality, fresh lump crab meat for the most authentic and delicious flavor in your poppers.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent medium heat to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown crust without burning.
• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Fry poppers in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent them from becoming greasy.
• Customize the Seasoning: Adjust Old Bay and herbs to personal taste, making these poppers uniquely yours with each batch.

Crab Cake Poppers: Storing Tips

• Storage
• Refrigerate leftover crab cake poppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Cover the poppers completely to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
• Reheating Methods
• Oven Reheating: Preheat oven to 375°F. Place poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm for 8-10 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve the crunchy exterior.
• Freezing Option: Freeze uncooked poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to freezer bags once solid. Frozen poppers can be stored up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator before cooking and fry directly from chilled state.

What to Serve with Crab Cake Poppers

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio cuts through the richness of the crab cakes, enhancing the delicate seafood flavor with its bright, zesty notes.
• Match with Light Citrus Salad: Create a fresh side of mixed greens, grapefruit segments, and cucumber to complement the poppers' creamy texture and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside Chilled Craft Beer: A light wheat beer or pilsner works perfectly, its subtle hoppy character balancing the crab's richness and the aioli's tangy profile.
• Complement with Lemony Arugula Slaw: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette and toasted pine nuts to add a peppery, bright element that echoes the dish's citrus undertones.

Flavor Upgrades for Crab Cake Poppers

• Spicy Seafood Kick: Add diced jalapeños and cayenne pepper to the crab mixture for a fiery flavor profile that brings extra heat to the poppers.
• Mediterranean-Style Poppers: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh dill, and a sprinkle of za'atar spice blend to give the crab cakes a Greek-inspired taste.
• Herb Garden Poppers: Mix in fresh chopped basil, thyme, and rosemary to create an aromatic herbal version that elevates the classic crab cake flavor.
• Smoky Bacon Infusion: Fold in crispy bacon bits and a touch of smoked paprika to add a rich, smoky dimension to the crab poppers.

Crab Cake Poppers Recipe

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4.6 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy Maryland crab cake poppers deliver a coastal flavor explosion in bite-sized perfection. Delicate crab meat mingles with zesty seasonings, creating an irresistible appetizer you’ll crave at every gathering.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (454 g) lump crab meat
• ⅓ cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 oz (56 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 egg, lightly beaten

Flavoring Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives, divided
• Dash Worcestershire sauce
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Coating and Frying Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, divided
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Grated Parmesan, for garnish
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend softened cream cheese, rich mayonnaise, whisked egg, tangy lemon juice, zesty Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
2. Gently incorporate fresh lump crab meat, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, finely chopped chives, and breadcrumbs into the creamy mixture. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
3. Using clean hands or a small cookie scoop, carefully form the mixture into uniform 1-inch (2.5 centimeters) spherical poppers. Roll each popper in remaining panko breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage.
4. Transfer the coated poppers to a parchment-lined baking sheet and place in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up, which will help maintain their shape during cooking.
5. Prepare the accompanying aioli by combining remaining chopped chives, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning in a small mixing bowl. Season with a touch of freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Heat 1/2 inch (1.3 centimeters) of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat, bringing the temperature to approximately 350°F (175°C).
7. Carefully fry the chilled crab poppers in small batches, ensuring they turn golden brown and crisp, about 3 minutes per side. Use tongs to gently turn and prevent splashing.
8. Remove the poppers using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on a wire rack lined with paper towels to maintain crispiness.
9. Garnish the hot poppers with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
10. Serve immediately with the prepared aioli on the side, allowing guests to dip and enjoy these delectable crab cake poppers.

Notes

• Prep ahead by freezing crab balls for 30 minutes to help them hold shape and prevent falling apart during frying.
• Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and richest seafood flavor in these bite-sized appetizers.
• Maintain oil temperature around 350°F for perfect golden-brown exterior without greasy or soggy poppers.
• Create a quick, zesty aioli by mixing chives, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Old Bay for a complementary dipping sauce.
• Best served immediately after frying to enjoy crispy exterior and warm, creamy interior.
• Easily make these poppers ahead of time and refrigerate before final frying for convenient party preparation.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 332 cal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 610 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 125 mg