Savor the irresistible flavors of the coast with these Chesapeake Crab Balls, a bite-sized delight packed with fresh lump crab meat and a blend of bold seasonings like Old Bay, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Perfectly crisped through baking or frying, these golden appetizers boast a delicate texture and a hint of citrusy brightness from fresh lemon juice. Parsley adds a touch of freshness, while breadcrumbs and a creamy mayo mixture bind everything together seamlessly. Ready in just 35 minutes, this elegant yet easy recipe is ideal for party platters, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleasing seafood treat. Pair with tangy tartar sauce, zesty cocktail sauce, or a sharp lemon aioli for an unforgettable flavor experience!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking the crab balls.
In a large mixing bowl, gently pick through the lump crab meat to remove any shells, being careful not to break up the meat too much.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and parsley until well combined.
Pour the wet mixture over the crab meat, then add the breadcrumbs. Gently fold together using a spatula or your hands, being careful not to overmix.
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1½ inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
If baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Arrange the crab balls on the sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
If frying: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry the crab balls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve the Chesapeake Crab Balls warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a lemon aioli.
Calories |
2143 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 178.5 g | 229% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.5 g | 123% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 518 mg | 173% | |
| Sodium | 3381 mg | 147% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 55.7 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.6 g | ||
| Protein | 94.4 g | 189% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 389 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 8.3 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 1782 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.