Seafood Stuffed Crab Recipe

If you’re searching for a true coastal classic that’s big on comfort and elegance, look no further than Seafood Stuffed Crab. Plump crab and juicy shrimp come together in a luscious, savory filling that’s baked to golden perfection in natural crab shells or ramekins. With its perfectly seasoned blend and creamy texture, Seafood Stuffed Crab is a celebration of all things decadent from the sea, perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a thoughtful lineup of ingredients, each one playing a role in deepening flavor and creating irresistible texture and aroma. From the sweet, briny seafood to the aromatic veggies and just the right touch of seasoning, every item here supports the bright, creamy character of Seafood Stuffed Crab.

• Crab shells or ramekins: Perfect for serving individual portions and giving a classic presentation. Ramekins work great if shells aren’t available.
• Lump crab meat (1 lb): Delivers the sweet, succulent base that makes this dish a seafood lover’s dream. Always double-check for any stray shells.
• Small cooked shrimp (½ lb, chopped): Adds another layer of texture and clean ocean flavor—chop roughly for a hearty bite.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the veggies; it gives richness and helps everything meld together.
• Finely chopped onion (½ cup): Adds mild sweetness and helps build the aromatic base.
• Finely chopped celery (¼ cup): Brings a subtle crunch and a whisper of earthiness.
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Just enough for a gentle, savory kick; don’t skip it.
• Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Bind the mixture perfectly so it’s moist but never soggy.
• Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Adds creamy body without heaviness and keeps every bite tender.
• Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): A touch of tang to balance the richness and brighten the flavor.
• Old Bay seasoning (1 teaspoon): Classic seafood seasoning for that unmistakable flavor punch—if you love it, add a pinch more.
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): A squeeze of citrus wakes everything up and balances the richness of the seafood.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Brightens the mix visually and flavor-wise; save a little to sprinkle on top.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste the mixture and season accordingly—seafood shines with just the right touch.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (2 tablespoons): Toasts up golden and adds a savory finish on top.
• Paprika for garnish: For color and a hint of smoky depth; just a little dusting makes a big visual impact.

How to Make Seafood Stuffed Crab

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. While your oven gets nice and toasty, gather your ingredients and prepare the crab shells or ramekins by making sure they’re clean, dry, and set on a baking sheet for easy transportation. Double-check your crab meat for any small shells, and chop the cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces. This little bit of advance prep helps everything come together smoothly when it’s time to assemble your Seafood Stuffed Crab.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for around 5 minutes, just until everything is soft and fragrant. This quick sauté mellows the bite of the onion and garlic, creating a wonderful aromatic base for your Seafood Stuffed Crab filling.

Step 3: Mix the Seafood Filling

Let the sautéed vegetables cool slightly before adding them to your mixing bowl. In that bowl, combine the lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and your cooled sautéed veggies. Gently fold everything together, taking care not to break up the crab meat too much. You’re aiming for a textured, hearty stuffing you’ll want to pile high.

Step 4: Season and Fill

Give your mixture a taste, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Once the flavor is just right, spoon the filling evenly into your prepared crab shells or ramekins. Don’t be shy here—pack the filling firmly but don’t squash it. Once they’re filled, sprinkle each one with the grated Parmesan and dust lightly with paprika for a boost of color and flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your stuffed crabs into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tops are slightly golden and the filling is heated through. The Parmesan will form a delicate, savory crust while the paprika helps the Seafood Stuffed Crab look as vibrant as it tastes. Serve hot, right from the oven, for best results.

How to Serve Seafood Stuffed Crab

Garnishes

Garnishing your Seafood Stuffed Crab is both fun and impactful for flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley just before serving adds color and a fresh note, while a few lemon wedges give your guests the chance to add a final pop of brightness to their dish. For that extra bit of drama, a pinch of extra paprika or even some chive blossoms can make each serving feel restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

For sides, think fresh and light to complement the richness of your Seafood Stuffed Crab. I love to serve a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, lemony asparagus, or even buttery corn on the cob. Garlic bread or simple rice pilaf make excellent options if you want something heartier—but the star of the plate will always be the crab.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re up for something different, try baking your Seafood Stuffed Crab mixture in scallop shells for an elegant twist, or stuff miniature versions into mushroom caps as savory appetizers. For a beachy vibe, arrange the stuffed shells on a platter scattered with seaweed or edible flowers. You can even make individual portions in ramekins for a chic, no-fuss dinner party presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Seafood Stuffed Crab can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Let them cool to room temperature before covering, and when you’re ready for a quick seafood fix, simply reheat and enjoy. The flavor is often even better after a rest in the fridge!

Freezing

Seafood Stuffed Crab holds up remarkably well in the freezer. Assemble the filling into the shells or ramekins but hold off on baking. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to one month. When a craving hits, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the Seafood Stuffed Crab with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, usually about 10–15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, leave loosely covered and add another 10 minutes; the filling should be hot all the way through. For best texture, avoid microwaving, as it can leave the filling a bit rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab or different seafood?

You can definitely use imitation crab if that’s what you have on hand, though the flavor will be slightly different and less sweet compared to real lump crab. Feel free to swap in chopped scallops, lobster, or even white fish to mix things up while still enjoying a classic Seafood Stuffed Crab experience.

What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay, try a combination of celery salt, paprika, garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne to mimic its classic flavor profile. Cajun seasoning is a bolder alternative if you want to add a little Southern warmth to your Seafood Stuffed Crab.

Do I have to use crab shells for serving?

Not at all! Ramekins are a simple and elegant substitute for crab shells, and actually make serving and baking a bit easier. You can also use small baking dishes or even hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun, edible twist.

How do I keep the filling from becoming watery?

To avoid a soggy filling, be sure your crab and shrimp are well-drained, and sauté the vegetables until all excess moisture has evaporated from the skillet. The breadcrumbs help absorb any juices and keep the stuffing perfectly moist, not runny.

Can I make Seafood Stuffed Crab spicy?

Yes! Mix in a dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of cayenne, or some minced fresh jalapeño right into the filling to give your Seafood Stuffed Crab a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to suit your taste buds.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a homemade Seafood Stuffed Crab, whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or to wow guests at a celebration. With every bite rich in flavor and nostalgia, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again. Go ahead—gather your ingredients, invite someone you love, and dig in to a meal that’s meant to be savored!

Print