If you are looking to wow your guests or simply indulge yourself with a flavorful seafood treat, this Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe will become your new favorite. These biscuits are cheesy, buttery, and packed with a creamy, zesty crab filling that brings a coastal charm to your table. Each bite offers a gorgeous mix of textures—from the tender, flaky biscuit exterior to the luscious crab mixture inside—making it impossible to resist reaching for just one more. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving an upscale snack, these biscuits deliver on both comfort and sophistication.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this dish is refreshingly simple, yet every component plays a vital role in balancing flavors and achieving the perfect texture. Fresh crab adds delicate sweetness, cheddar cheese lends sharpness, and the garlic and Old Bay seasoning bring that classic Bay bite you love.
- 2 cups all-purpose baking mix: The foundation that makes these biscuits light and tender without fuss.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharpness and melty goodness in every bite.
- 2/3 cup whole milk: Adds moisture for a soft dough texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a savory depth that’s subtle but essential.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): For brushing that golden top and infusing richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Fresh color and a hint of herbal brightness.
- 8 ounces lump crab meat: The star of the filling, bringing sweet, tender seafood flavor.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Creates a creamy, luscious base for the crab mixture.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds moisture and binds the filling together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A touch of acidity that balances richness perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seasoning bringing a subtle kick and complexity.
- 1 green onion (finely chopped): Provides fresh mild onion notes for added flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
How to Make Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to get it ready for baking these beauties. In a mixing bowl, combine the baking mix, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, milk, and garlic powder. Stir until a soft dough forms—don’t overmix here, keeping it tender is key!
Step 2: Make the Crab Filling
In a separate bowl, blend lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, finely chopped green onion, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture should be creamy but hold together well, bursting with savory-sweet seafood flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Biscuits
Divide the biscuit dough into 10 equal portions. Flatten each portion slightly in your hand to create a mini disc. Spoon about a tablespoon of the crab filling onto the center, then gently pinch and seal the dough all around the filling to form a neat little ball. Place each biscuit seam side down on a lined baking sheet to keep everything intact while baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the stuffed biscuits for 12 to 15 minutes until they are puffed up and golden brown on top. Once out of the oven, immediately brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for that inviting shine and herbal lift.
How to Serve Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra parsley or a dusting of paprika not only makes these crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits look stunning but also adds subtle flavor enhancements. A lemon wedge on the side is wonderful for an optional fresh squeeze that elevates the seafood notes.
Side Dishes
Pair with a crisp, peppery arugula salad or a light cucumber dill salad to balance the richness of the biscuits. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a lemon twist complements the seafood flavors beautifully, rounding out a refreshing appetizer experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these biscuits on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of remoulade sauce or spicy aioli for dipping. For a party, arrange them on tiered stands for gorgeous visual appeal and easy grabbing. You can even turn these into mini sliders with a lettuce leaf for a bite-sized seafood treat with flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They taste delicious cold but reheated brings back that freshly baked warmth.
Freezing
You can freeze these crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits either before or after baking. For best results, assemble and freeze unbaked on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, place the biscuits on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes. This method crisps the outside while melting the crab filling to that irresistible creamy texture just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab meat in this recipe?
While lump crab meat is recommended for the best flavor and texture, imitation crab can be used when necessary. Just be aware it will have a slightly different taste and softer texture, but it will still make a tasty appetizer.
How do I know when the biscuits are fully cooked?
The biscuits should be golden brown on top and feel firm but tender when lightly pressed. Typically, 12 to 15 minutes at 400°F is sufficient, but ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the color and texture.
Can I prepare the crab filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The crab filling can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes stuffing the biscuits faster and lets the flavors meld nicely.
Are these biscuits suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Traditional recipes use all-purpose baking mix containing gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free baking blends, but the texture may vary slightly. Be sure to choose a baking mix that suits your dietary needs.
What is the best way to serve these at a party?
Serve the crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits warm on a platter with toothpicks or small forks for easy hand-held snacking. Offering dipping sauces like garlic aioli or lemon butter sauce adds an exciting interactive element that guests will love.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, cheesy biscuit filled with savory crab that feels like a little coastal vacation for your taste buds. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe as much as I do. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special homemade delight that feels fancy yet comforting. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to appetizer for every occasion!
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Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 stuffed biscuits
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits combine the classic, cheesy biscuit with a savory lump crab filling for an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for parties or a special treat. These golden-baked bites are infused with garlic and cheddar, and topped with melted butter and fresh parsley for a delicious nod to the famous seafood-inspired flavor.
Ingredients
Biscuit Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Crab Filling
- 8 ounces lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 green onion (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the biscuits evenly and ensure they develop a golden crust.
- Make Biscuit Dough: In a large bowl, combine the baking mix, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, whole milk, and garlic powder. Stir until a soft dough forms that’s easy to handle but not too sticky.
- Prepare Crab Filling: In a separate bowl, mix lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, finely chopped green onion, salt, and pepper. Blend gently to combine while keeping the crab lumps intact for texture.
- Form Stuffed Biscuits: Divide the biscuit dough into 10 equal portions. Flatten each portion slightly in your hand, spoon about 1 tablespoon of crab filling into the center, then carefully pinch and seal the dough all around to encase the filling in a ball shape.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each sealed dough ball seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy removal.
- Bake Biscuits: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the biscuits turn golden brown and cooked through.
- Finish with Butter and Parsley: As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush their tops with melted unsalted butter and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for extra flavor and an appealing presentation.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy these delicious crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits immediately as a flavorful appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- Use real lump crab meat for the best authentic flavor; imitation crab works but won’t be as rich.
- These stuffed biscuits can be made ahead and stored, then reheated in the oven before serving.
- Be sure to seal the dough around the crab filling well to prevent leakage during baking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or extra Old Bay seasoning to the crab mixture.
