Crab Balls Recipe Everyone Raves About
This crab balls recipe delivers bite-sized, golden crab cakes with a tender center and crisp edges, packed with sweet lump crab and classic coastal flavor. Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or party bites—easy to bake or air-fry for any occasion.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment-lined baking sheet or air fryer basket
- Small cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Basting brush
- Paper towels
- Spatula or spoon
- Oven or air fryer
- Instant-read thermometer (optional but helpful)
Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat well-drained
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2 tbsp finely diced celery
- 2 tbsp finely diced red bell pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay-style seasoning
- ½ tsp fresh lemon zest
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter for brushing
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp finely chopped jalapeño for heat
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (or air fryer to 380°F). Line baking sheet or lightly grease air fryer basket.
- Pat crab dry using paper towels.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, egg, mustard, Worcestershire, seasoning, zest, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in celery, bell pepper, and green onion.
- Gently fold in crab and breadcrumbs until just combined.
- Scoop and roll into 1-inch balls. Place on prepared sheet or basket.
- Brush tops with melted butter.
- Bake 15–17 min (or air fry 10–12 min), turning/shaking halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges or dipping sauce.
Notes
Be sure to pat the crab dry before mixing to help the balls hold together during cooking. These are shellfish-based and best served warm.