Craving something fresh from the sea? Look no further! Blue crabs are a delicacy that can elevate any dish to new heights. With their sweet, succulent flavor and tender texture, it’s no wonder why seafood lovers go crazy for these crustaceans. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouth-watering blue crab recipes that will have you hooked from the very first bite.
From classic Maryland-style boils to spicy Cajun-inspired gumbo, and from creamy bisques to zesty salads, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next seafood cooking adventure. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to dive into the world of blue crab culinary delights!
Spicy Blue Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Add a touch of Chesapeake Bay flair to your dinner table with these crispy, spicy blue crab cakes served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a cake.
3. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook crab cakes for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown.
4. Serve with Remoulade Sauce (see below).
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until serving.
Creamy Blue Crab Bisque with Fresh Herbs
This rich and flavorful bisque is a perfect blend of succulent blue crab, fresh herbs, and creamy goodness. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup fish stock (or clam juice)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh herbs: parsley, chives, and tarragon
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, fish stock, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until bisque has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in blue crab meat and chopped fresh herbs.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Blue Crab Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of blue crab with the richness of garlic butter, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in blue crab meat, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Heat until warmed through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and garlic butter mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Maryland Blue Crab Boil
Get ready to savor the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with this iconic blue crab boil recipe, featuring succulent crabs and a medley of aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs Maryland blue crabs (littleneck or chesapeake-style)
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 4-6 red potatoes, scrubbed and halved
– 1 large yellow onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Natty Boh), sliced
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot or crab steamer with enough water to cover the ingredients.
2. Add Old Bay seasoning, lemon slices, and garlic. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add potatoes, onion, and sausage. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Carefully add blue crabs to the pot, cover with a lid, and steam for 8-10 minutes or until they turn bright red.
5. Remove crabs from the pot and serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these decadent blue crab stuffed mushrooms, featuring sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add blue crab meat and stir until heated through. Season with Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Stuff each cap with the blue crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with any remaining butter from the skillet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tangy Blue Crab Salad with Avocado
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of blue crab with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a tangy and crunchy package.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked blue crab (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine the blue crab, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
Blue Crab and Corn Chowder
Savor the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with this hearty and delicious chowder, featuring succulent blue crab and sweet corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly; bring to a simmer.
5. Add blue crab meat and corn kernels; stir gently.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cajun-Style Blue Crab Gumbo
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of Louisiana’s Gulf Coast with this hearty and aromatic Cajun-Style Blue Crab Gumbo recipe. This classic dish is a staple of Cajun cuisine, combining succulent blue crab meat with a medley of spices, herbs, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in rice and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until gumbo thickens.
6. Add blue crab meat; stir gently to combine.
7. Simmer an additional 5-10 minutes or until crab is heated through.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or scallions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blue Crab Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of succulent blue crab meat, perfectly balanced flavors and a pop of color. This recipe is sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup lump blue crab meat, flaked
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chives, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix until smooth.
4. Stir in the blue crab meat.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with additional chives or paprika if desired.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Serve chilled, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Blue Crab and Shrimp Etouffee
A classic Creole dish from Louisiana, this etouffee is a flavorful combination of succulent blue crab, shrimp, and spicy seasonings. Serve over rice for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo blue crab claws, cracked
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add blue crab and shrimp; cook until pink and slightly firm, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in flour; cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
7. Bring to a simmer; cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
8. Stir in parsley; serve over rice.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Experience the harmonious blend of sweet blue crab and savory spinach wrapped in tender pasta shells. This elegant dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner with friends.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine blue crab meat, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the crab-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the shells are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zesty Blue Crab Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing twist on traditional tacos, featuring succulent blue crab, zesty lime crema, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, radishes, and lime wedges for garnish
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; mix gently.
3. Grill tortillas for 30-60 seconds per side, until lightly charred and pliable.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning crab mixture onto grilled tortillas, then topping with lime crema and garnishes of choice.
5. Cook time: 10 minutes
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Blue Crab and Artichoke Dip
A creamy and flavorful dip that combines the sweetness of blue crab with the tender artichoke hearts, perfect for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat), flaked
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, and green onions. Mix until smooth.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts, blue crab meat, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Crab Fried Rice with Scallions
Elevate your fried rice game with this flavorful and savory recipe that combines the richness of blue crab meat with the pungency of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the flaked blue crab meat and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice with the blue crab mixture for about 2-3 minutes, until well combined and heated through.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blue Crab and Mango Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche combines the sweetness of mango with the succulent flavor of blue crab, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine blue crab meat, mango, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the crab.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This ceviche is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
Blue Crab and Asparagus Quiche
Experience the flavors of the ocean and garden with this delightful quiche, featuring succulent blue crab meat and tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought
– 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, etc.)
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat, flaked
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté asparagus and garlic until tender. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add blue crab meat and cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
6. Arrange mixed greens, cooked asparagus, and blue crab meat in the pie crust.
7. Pour egg mixture over the filling and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Blue Crab and Sweet Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are packed with succulent blue crab meat, sweet corn, and a hint of spice, making them the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blue crab meat
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, sweet corn, flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture into balls and then flatten slightly into disks.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Blue Crab and Tomato Bruschetta
Add a touch of coastal flair to your appetizers with this refreshing twist on classic bruschetta.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup fresh blue crab meat, flaked
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blue crab meat, diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the blue crab and tomato mixture over each bread round, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of blue crab with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From spicy dishes like Blue Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce and Cajun-Style Gumbo, to creamy bisques and pasta dishes, there’s something for every seafood lover. Classic Maryland-style boils and boils-inspired appetizers like Stuffed Mushrooms and Deviled Eggs are also included. For a lighter option, try the Tangy Salad or Zesty Tacos with Lime Crema. And don’t forget about brunch-worthy quiches and breakfast-inspired fritters. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking to mix things up, these recipes are sure to impress!
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