Classic crab bombs with jumbo lump crab meat. Mix with mayo, egg, seasonings, form into mounds, bake until golden. Makes 4-6 bombs in 35 minutes.
These luxurious seafood treasures showcase the sweet, delicate flavor of jumbo lump crab meat in its purest form, bound together with just enough creamy ingredients to create perfect, golden-baked mounds of coastal indulgence. Each bite delivers chunks of premium crab held together by a light mixture of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning that enhances rather than masks the star ingredient. The result is an elevated take on classic crab cakes that feels both elegant enough for special occasions and comforting enough for family gatherings.
The first time I served these at a holiday dinner, I watched them disappear within minutes as guests raved about the incredible crab flavor. Now they've become such a requested dish that several family members have adopted them for their own special occasions. There's something magical about the aroma that fills the kitchen while they bake - it instantly transports me to those wonderful summer visits to the Chesapeake Bay with my family.
Premium Ingredients
- Jumbo lump crab meat: The star ingredient that provides sweet, delicate flavor and luxurious texture throughout each bite
- Quality mayonnaise: Full-fat variety creates creamy richness that binds without overpowering the delicate seafood
- Fresh large egg: Acts as a gentle binder that holds everything together while maintaining the crab's prominence
- Smooth Dijon mustard: Adds subtle heat and tangy depth that complements rather than competes with the crab
- Old Bay seasoning: Classic Chesapeake Bay blend that enhances seafood without overwhelming delicate flavors
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire mixture and adds essential acidity that balances the richness perfectly
- Fresh parsley: Optional flat-leaf variety provides color contrast and subtle herbal notes
- Buttery crackers: Ritz or similar provide gentle crunch and mild flavor that supports rather than dominates
- Salted butter: For brushing tops to create golden, aromatic finish with extra depth of flavor
- Lemon wedges: Essential accompaniment for guests to add brightness according to personal preference
Detailed Preparation Process
- Oven Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking and proper golden browning. This temperature provides the perfect balance between thorough cooking and maintaining the delicate texture of the crab meat.
- Crab Meat Inspection:
- Very gently go through the crab meat with clean fingers, carefully removing any pieces of shell while taking care not to break apart those precious lumps. The jumbo lumps are what give these bombs their signature luxurious texture.
- Binding Mixture Creation:
- Whisk together mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley in a medium bowl until smooth and well blended. This ensures every component is evenly distributed for consistent flavor throughout.
- Gentle Combination:
- Using a rubber spatula, fold the cleaned crab meat and lightly crushed crackers into the wet mixture with minimal stirring. The goal is just enough mixing to hold everything together while preserving those beautiful crab chunks that make each bite special.
- Shaping Process:
- Scoop the mixture and form into four to six generous mounds, placing them carefully on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each for proper heat circulation and even cooking.
- Butter Application:
- Melt butter and brush lightly over the top of each crab bomb to create that signature golden shine and add extra richness. This step is crucial for achieving the beautiful presentation and enhanced flavor.
- Baking Technique:
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until tops develop a light golden crust while centers remain heated through. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the delicate crab meat.
- Final Presentation:
- Transfer hot crab bombs to a serving platter immediately and accompany with fresh lemon wedges so guests can add brightness according to their preference. Serve while still warm for optimal texture and temperature.
Ingredients
→ Seafood
1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, fresh or pasteurized→ Binding and Flavoring
¼ cup mayonnaise1 large egg, lightly beaten1 tablespoon Dijon mustard1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning1 teaspoon lemon juice1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped→ Coating
2 tablespoons crushed buttery crackers→ Finishing
Melted butter for brushingLemon wedges for servingSteps
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow to fully heat.
Inspect crab meat carefully, removing any shells while keeping the delicate lumps intact.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and chopped parsley until well combined.
Add lump crab meat and crushed crackers to the bowl, folding gently until mixture just comes together. Avoid overmixing to preserve the crab's texture.
Shape mixture into 4-6 even mounds and arrange on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.
Brush each crab mound generously with melted butter. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and heated through.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and additional Old Bay seasoning if desired.