If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress, look no further than Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe. These golden, fluffy biscuits are filled with a luscious crab mixture seasoned just right, blending the sharp tang of cheddar with the delicate sweetness of crab meat. They’re easy to make, wonderfully indulgent, and perfect for sharing with loved ones at any gathering. Once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to appetizer for parties, game days, or whenever you crave something utterly delicious with a touch of coastal charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just the right ingredients is the key to making these biscuits divine. Each component plays a vital role: the flour and baking powder create the perfect biscuit base, sharp cheddar adds that savory punch, and the crab filling brings a burst of ocean-fresh flavor balanced with creamy and zesty notes.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender structure for your biscuits.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures a light, fluffy rise every time.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky warmth enhancing the savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and heightens the overall taste.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed): Creates that flaky texture and rich buttery flavor in the dough.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings that iconic Cheddar Bay Biscuit tang and gooeyness.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Moistens the dough nicely while keeping it tender.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a pop of fresh, herbaceous brightness.
- 1 (6 oz) can lump crab meat (drained and picked over): The star ingredient—ver delicate, sweet crab pieces to savor inside.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps bind the crab filling.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A little tang that cuts through the richness perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood seasoning that elevates every bite.
- 1 green onion (finely chopped): Provides a mild onion flavor and crunch.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the crab filling with a citrusy kick.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing: Gives biscuits a beautiful golden shine and extra buttery flavor.
How to Make Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to a lively 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. These dry ingredients will form the base of your biscuit dough, layering in those classic biscuit flavors.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter and Add Cheese
Next, take the cold, cubed butter and incorporate it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips. Your goal is a coarse crumbly texture with visible butter bits, which will melt during baking and create flaky layers. Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese evenly, so every biscuit melts with cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Form the Biscuit Dough
Add the milk slowly to the mixture, stirring gently just until it comes together as a dough. Overworking can lead to tough biscuits, so mix just until combined. This silky dough will be the outer shell holding all that savory crab filling.
Step 4: Make the Crab Filling
In a separate bowl, gently mix the lump crab meat with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, finely chopped green onion, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. This mixture should be creamy and well seasoned but still allow the crab’s delicate flavor to shine through beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble the Crab Stuffed Biscuits
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a teaspoon of crab filling in the center, then carefully fold the dough around it, sealing the edges tightly so the filling stays inside while baking. Place each stuffed biscuit onto your prepared baking sheet with a little space to puff up.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the tops of each biscuit with melted butter to encourage a golden brown crust and rich flavor. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until they’re puffed up and toasted to a gorgeous golden brown. Let them cool just a bit before serving warm and oozy.
How to Serve Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finish, sprinkle extra chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of Old Bay seasoning over the baked biscuits. A small wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to add a touch more citrus brightness if they like, bringing out the crab’s delicate sweetness even more.
Side Dishes
These biscuits shine as a standalone appetizer but pair beautifully with crisp green salads, chilled seafood cocktail, or even a rich chowder. The salty, cheesy biscuits offer the perfect textural contrast to lighter or creamier dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits on a rustic wooden board with ramekins of remoulade sauce, spicy aioli, or melted garlic butter for dipping. For parties, stack them in a pretty basket lined with cloth napkins, making them not only irresistible in flavor but a feast for the eyes too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover biscuits tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll keep fresh for up to 2 days, making them a wonderful treat for next-day snacking.
Freezing
These biscuits freeze exceptionally well. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can bake or reheat just the amount you want later without losing any flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the biscuits in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and crisped on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the oven keeps that freshly baked texture intact and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab meat instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh lump crab meat is even better if you can find it, as it has a sweeter, more delicate flavor, though canned lump crab meat works perfectly well and is more accessible.
Can I make these biscuits without cheese?
The cheddar cheese is integral to that classic Cheddar Bay Biscuit flavor and texture, so while you can omit it, you’ll miss some of the signature zing and gooeyness that make this recipe special.
Is it okay to substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative, but because mayo helps bind and enrich the crab filling, the texture and taste might be slightly less creamy. It’s worth trying if you want a lighter version.
Can I prepare the crab filling in advance?
Yes! In fact, making the crab filling a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and assemble your biscuits right before baking.
Are these biscuits spicy?
They have a mild warmth from Old Bay seasoning and Dijon mustard, but nothing that’s overpowering—perfect for those who enjoy flavorful yet approachable seafood appetizers.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe a try because it’s one of those rare dishes that manages to be impressive and accessible all at once. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just to surprise your family with something delightful, these biscuits promise a burst of comfort and coastal charm that’s hard to resist. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Irresistible Appetizer Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 biscuits
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a delicious and irresistible appetizer combining the flaky, buttery texture of cheddar bay biscuits with a savory lump crab meat filling. Perfect for seafood lovers and ideal for entertaining or a special treat.
Ingredients
Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Crab Filling
- 1 (6 oz) can lump crab meat (drained and picked over)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 green onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning throughout the biscuit dough.
- Cut in Butter: Cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs; this helps create a flaky biscuit texture.
- Add Cheese and Milk: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Then pour in the milk and mix gently just until a dough forms, being careful not to overwork it to keep the biscuits tender.
- Prepare Crab Filling: In a separate bowl, combine lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, finely chopped green onion, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix well to create a flavorful filling.
- Form Biscuits: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion 2-tablespoon sized amounts of biscuit dough. Flatten each portion slightly in your hand, add about one teaspoon of crab filling to the center, then carefully fold and seal the dough around the filling. Ensure edges are well sealed to prevent leaks.
- Arrange and Brush: Place each stuffed biscuit on the prepared baking sheet spaced slightly apart. Brush the tops generously with the melted butter to enhance browning and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
- The crab filling can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- These biscuits freeze well; reheat them in the oven to retain their crispy texture.
