31 Delicious Dishes To Serve With Crab Meat

Let’s be honest, when it comes to what the ocean has to offer, Crab Meat recipes never disappoint.

Whether it’s the slight touch of sweetness or the irresistible texture, crab is a must-have for any seafood extravaganza (don’t worry, a quiet dinner at home is also acceptable). 

Now, you may be wondering, “why crab?”, when there are so many great seafood options out there. Well, there are a couple of reasons for this.

In comparison with lobster, crab is significantly more affordable. In addition, crab meat is highly efficient to make and only requires a short period of time to cook. 

And best of all, crab meat pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of foods including other seafood and fish, pasta, rice and yes, even vegetables! 

If you’ve been looking for the perfect dish to satisfy both your seafood cravings and the bank, you’ll definitely want to check out these simple yet impressive crab meat delights.

Quick Table: Delicious Crab Meat Dishes

Recipes	Calories Per Serving	Preparation Time
Crab Dip	304	15 Minutes
Crab Stuffed Salmon	391	10 Minutes
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms	30	10 Minutes
Crab Rangoon Pizza	454	20 Minutes
Crab Rolls	499	10 Minutes
Soft Shell Crab Bloody Mary	Not Available	15 Minutes
Crab Cakes	150	10 Minutes
Low Carb Crab Cakes	217	10 Minutes
Crab Cake Mini Sliders	355	5 Minutes
Avocado Crab Salad With Seville Oranges	367	10 Minutes
Shrimp And Crab Gumbo	266	20 Minutes
Cajun Crab Pasta Alfredo	1335	15 Minutes
Old Bay Soft Shell Crab Burger	Not Available	10 Minutes
Spicy Crab Kani Salad	377	20 Minutes
Sweet Corn Crab Puffs	48	15 Minutes
Spicy Crab Sushi Bowl	Not Available	10 Minutes
Jumbo Lump Crab Pot Pie	Not Available	20 Minutes
Crab Fried Rice	335	5 Minutes
Cheesy Crab Melt	1695	10 Minutes
Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls	202	10 Minutes
Crab Meat Au Gratin	276	10 Minutes
Crab Meat Casserole	206	5 Minutes
Crab Quiche	1381	20 Minutes
Shredded Crab Tagliatelle	475	5 Minutes
Creamy Crab Bisque	Not Available	10 Minutes
Crab Poppers With Sriracha Aioli	Not Available	15 Minutes
Crab And Garlic Butter Pasta	Not Available	Not Available
Minnesota Crab Louie	358	10 Minutes
Crab Mac And Cheese	677	20 Minutes
Crab Stuffed Cucumber Cups With Old Bay Seasoning	Not Available	20 Minutes
Crab Hush Puppies	Not Available	20 Minutes

1. Crab Dip

Are you getting ready for a party and are looking for the perfect appetizer to get the festivities going? If the answer is yes, then there’s no better option than this easy and delectable homemade crab dip. 

Parties can be stressful, especially when you’re the only one in the kitchen. What’s great about this dish is that it can be prepared a day in advance. Simply store it in the fridge and voila! Your party prep work just got that much easier. 

For the best results make sure to use fresh lump crab. Pair it with a variety of simple ingredients and you’ve got yourself an irresistible, creamy crab dip that can be served both cold and hot. 

And if you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry. This dip can also be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days after making it. 

Calories Per Serving: 304

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

2. Crab Stuffed Salmon

When you’re having guests over, providing a delicious and impressive meal is definitely a priority. And if it’s easy to make? Well, that’s just a bonus!

This crab-stuffed salmon recipe is not only lavish in appearance, it also tastes great! 

In contrast to the previous recipe, crab plays more of a supporting role in this dish. In this recipe, tender salmon fillets are the main act and the crab is paired with cream cheese to make the perfect stuffing for this seafood and fish ensemble. 

And as if that wasn’t impressive enough, this sweet and savory dish only takes 15 minutes to prepare. 

Calories Per Serving: 391 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

3. Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Whether it’s a summer barbeque or a holiday party, crab stuffed mushrooms are a must-have appetizer. 

Made with fresh lump crab and a variety of other tasty ingredients such as red bell pepper, celery and onion, this dish will definitely impress.

And if the flavors weren’t fabulous enough, the small, compact shape of the mushrooms is not only practical but also adorable. 

Watch out, because these are going to go fast! 

Calories Per Serving: 30

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

4. Crab Rangoon Pizza

When in doubt, cook pizza. And if that pizza is homemade and topped with delicious fresh crab, well, it doesn’t get better than that. 

Crab rangoon pizza is the perfect meal for any occasion when you’re looking for a fun and easy finger food to serve your guests. This recipe satisfies just that and is an ideal option because of its diverse palette of toppings.

With a variety of vegetables and cheeses such as mushrooms, peppers, cream cheese and mozzarella, this crab dish has something for everyone. 

Oh, and did we mention it also comes with a sweet and salty drizzle? Deeeelish. 

Calories Per Serving: 454

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes  

5. Crab Rolls

Fresh bread really does make everything better (there’s a reason Europeans never forget this element during mealtime). Crab is no exception. 

This recipe is first prepared by mixing together a crab salad with various ingredients including mayo, lemon, celery, chives and Old Bay seasoning.

To complete the dish, the salad is placed on top of a cloud-like, buttery bread roll. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it!

You may be concerned about the extra carbs from the bread recipe but hey, with the salad you get the best of both worlds. 

Calories Per Serving: 499

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

6. Soft Shell Crab Bloody Mary

Crab meat isn’t only epic in dishes, it’s also delicious paired with a drink! With summer here, people can’t get enough of the signature bloody mary and this recipe takes advantage of just that. 

Next time you’re having guests, pull out this recipe and watch their faces quickly turn into an expression of astonishment.

With a classic bloody mary mix and a soft shell crab to garnish the top of the glass, this drink is nothing short of impressive. 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

7. Crab Cakes

Now, this wouldn’t be an article on crab meat if we didn’t include the classic crab cake. 

If you’re not sure what dish to make with crab, crab cakes are always a safe choice that will be sure to be a crowd pleaser. 

These delectable crab cakes recipe are spiced to perfection and despite being simple to prepare, possess the quality of what one may find in a fancy restaurant. 

With its delicious flavors and crispy finish, you really can’t go wrong with this one. And what’s even better, these cakes can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 30 days. 

Calories Per Serving: 150 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

RELATED: What Are The Best Methods For Cooking Imitation Crab?

8. Low Carb Crab Cakes

For a crab cake alternative that is just as delicious but is bariatric-friendly, this is a great recipe. With lump crab meat as the star of the show, these cakes are fresh and bursting with scrumptious, seafood goodness. 

As they only require 10 minutes to make, this dish is also a great option for when you need to be a little more efficient in the kitchen. 

Pair the crab cakes with remoulade sauce, lemon aioli, cocktail sauce, or tartar sauce for the best results and if you’re not sure what other dishes best compliment crab cakes, salads are a delicious and nutritious option. 

Calories Per Serving: 217 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

9. Crab Cake Mini Sliders

And what’s even better than crab cake? Mini crab cakes! 

These crab cake sliders are perfect for any upcoming event as their small, bite-size shape makes the ideal appetizer. Not to mention they are quick and easy to prepare as well as low in calories. What’s not to love?

Compliment the jumbo lump crab meat with a chipotle mayo that will satisfy both your spicy and zesty cravings. 

We promise you, once you take that first crunchy bite, you won’t be able to stop yourself from going in for seconds. 

Calories Per Serving: 355

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes  

10. Avocado Crab Salad With Seville Oranges

You know those dishes that seem impressive just based off of the name? Yeah, this is one of them. And bonus, it actually tastes as great as it sounds!

Avocados have really gained a lot of attention in the last couple of years as health enthusiasts have become more and more aware of their nutritional value. It’s no surprise then that the seafood industry also had to hop on the trend. 

This recipe pairs crab meat with avocados, Seville oranges, bell peppers and cilantro to make a light and healthy meal. Who said salad has to be boring?

Calories Per Serving: 367 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

11. Shrimp And Crab Gumbo

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hot steaming bowl of gumbo (okay, pasta is definitely a close second, but more of that later).

If you can’t get enough of this dish and want to incorporate something to satisfy your seafood cravings then you’ve come to the right place. 

There’s no better duo than shrimp and crab and this recipe utilizes it perfectly. With its rich flavors and perfectly balanced spice ratio, this shrimp and crab gumbo will not disappoint. 

Calories Per Serving: 266 

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

 12. Cajun Crab Pasta Alfredo

Did you think we would forget to come back to the pasta? We wouldn’t do that to you. Pasta is something to take very seriously and can not go unnoticed, especially when cajun crab is involved. 

This crab alfredo is creamy, bursting with flavor and only requires one pot. It’s simple to make but with its delicate touch of lemon and parsley and its spicy kick from the cajun seasoning, this crab pasta is definitely not simple in how it tastes. 

Calories Per Serving: 1335 

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

13. Old Bay Soft Shell Crab Burger

Are you planning a barbeque get-together and need a dish that will “wow” the crowd? If yes, then you’ll definitely want to check this recipe out. 

Burgers are a classic barbeque choice but if you really want to impress your guests opt for something with a little more pizzazz such as these soft shell crab burgers.

This recipe incorporates all of the fan favorites such as tomatoes, lettuce and cheese and pickles but adds a special topping to bring the taste factor to the next level. 

Soft shell crabs make a delicious addition to any burger palette and when paired with old bay seasoning, are simply to die for. 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

14. Spicy Crab Kani Salad

If you’re an avid sushi-eater but want to expand your horizons a bit without going too much out of your comfort zone then this spicy crab kani salad is just what you need. 

“Kani” actually means crab in Japanese and can often be found in the form of salads in many Japanese restaurants. 

While crab meat, veggies and mango aren’t the most filling combination of ingredients, this dish is perfect for anyone wanting a light meal with a low amount of calories. Alternatively, this salad would also be great as a side dish. 

Calories Per Serving: 377

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

RELATED: 27 Of The Best Imitation Crab Recipes For Your Next Seafood Night

15. Sweet Corn Crab Puffs

If you didn’t know, sweet corn and crab are just one of those food combos that pair splendidly with one another. And when made into adorable puffs, provide the perfect appetizer for any occasion. 

Crab puffs are a southern classic that are both easy to make and super addictive. In this recipe, sweet corn and crab are combined with various spices such as paprika, garlic and onion as well as veggies such as peppers and green onion.

This dish is so good you may want to consider preparing a double batch. 

Calories Per Serving: 48 

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes

16. Spicy Crab Sushi Bowl

Attention all sushi-lovers! This message is for you.

We all know how expensive going out and eating sushi at restaurants can be. But we also know that if our addiction goes unsatisfied, bad things can happen… just kidding (maybe). 

But fear not! This spicy crab sushi bowl is just as divine as any restaurant sushi and can be prepared from the comfort of your own home. 

This recipe pairs crab with numerous tasty and healthy ingredients such as brown rice, carrots, cucumbers and avocado.

For the sushi element, seaweed sheets, sesame seeds and cabbage are also incorporated. And we can’t forget about the spicy chili and soy sauce dressing! 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

17. Jumbo Lump Crab Pot Pie

Switch out your classic turkey pot pie this Thanksgiving and try out a jumbo lump crab pot pie instead! 

Pot pie is the ultimate comfort food and when made with crab, is perfect for any seafood-lover.

With its creamy consistency, juicy crab pieces, diverse range of tasty ingredients and spices as well as a delicate puff pastry with a crust baked to perfection, this dish is a pot pie enthusiast’s dream. 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

 18. Crab Fried Rice

Yes, crab even pairs wonderfully with fried rice!

Like the previous recipes, the fresher the crab the tastier the dish will be. This is why opting for jumbo lump crab meat is preferable to crab in a can.

The crab in this fried rice gives a delicious sweetness to the dish and compliments the richness of the egg flavor perfectly. 

Having its origins in Vietnamese and Thai cuisine, this dish not only provides a delicious meal but also a wonderful cultural experience. 

Calories Per Serving: 335

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

19. Cheesy Crab Melt

We’re all familiar with the classic tuna melt, but have you ever heard of a crab melt? 

And this isn’t just any ordinary crab melt. This recipe uses a variety of delectable ingredients to elevate the classic faceup sandwich into something particularly special. 

Some of these ingredients include blue crab meat, freshly grated parmesan, Monterey jack cheese, artichokes and tomatoes. If that doesn’t sound divine I don’t know what does.

I mean, who doesn’t love extra cheesiness, juicy seafood and soft and comforting sourdough bread? (If you said me, we would like to kindly ask you to leave). 

Calories Per Serving: 1695

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

20. Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls

Classic egg rolls are delicious, but crab rangoon egg rolls? Now that’s something we have to try. 

There is something so satisfying about appetizer foods. Maybe it’s the adorable bite-size shape. Or perhaps it’s the festivities that often go with them.

Whatever it is, we can’t get enough of them. Especially, when crab and egg rolls are on the table. 

This recipe uses fresh crab meat and a blend of spices to create an easy and tasty crab rangoon egg roll.

The center is filled with smooth cream cheese and juicy crab deliciousness while the wrappers are fried to golden perfection. 

You’re not going to want to forget this one at your next party. 

Calories Per Serving: 202 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes

21. Crab Meat Au Gratin

If you’re ever feeling unsure as to how you can impress your guests, just serve them a meal with French in the title. 

Now don’t be fooled by the fancy-sounding words. This epic crab dip is actually super simple to make. 

As implied by the name, in this dish white crab meat and cheese are the stars of the show.

And as if that wasn’t enough to make our mouths salivate, further ingredients such as green onion, celery and a variety of spices are making us go crazy over this dish. 

Crab meat au gratin is best served hot and makes the perfect appetizer at any event. 

Calories Per Serving: 276

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

RELATED: What To Eat With Crab Cakes: 16 Amazing Side Dishes

22. Crab Meat Casserole

One-dish meals where everything is just piled on top of each other into one mountain of tasty goodness has to be one of the greatest things to happen to humanity. I mean, who needs Einstein and Picasso when you can have casseroles? 

This recipe puts a seafood spin on the traditional casserole and is a great dinner idea for anyone wanting an easy and delicious meal with minimal cleanup. 

Crab, peppers and eggplant act as the foundation for this meal while a variety of cheeses and spices provide the perfect toppings to bring this casserole to the next level. 

I know what I’m cooking tonight. 

Calories Per Serving: 206

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes

23. Crab Quiche

Quiche may have its origins in France but who says you can’t put a southern spin on it? 

This crab quiche recipe is to die for and with a whole pound of lump crab meat is definitely reserved for the true crab enthusiasts.

Quiche is a great lunch or dinner option because it not only tastes delectable, but it also possesses that “fancy” factor. Oh, and did we mention it’s super easy to make?

With two different kinds of cheese, parsley, onion and a buttery pastry filled with juicy crab meat, your guests will be begging for the recipe. 

Calories Per Serving: 1381

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

24. Shredded Crab Tagliatelle

Since we covered France, we only thought it fair to mention Italy. Italy is, after all, famous for its pasta recipes. 

You can never go wrong with a good dish of tagliatelle but if you want to enhance your cooking skills and give your guests something they’ll be talking about for weeks, try adding a new and unexpected element such as shredded crab.

Top it off with a dressing such as this homemade sauce with garlic, parsley, butter, lemon, and tomatoes. 

This pasta is creamy, cheesy, zesty and just the right amount of spicy.  

Calories Per Serving: 475

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes 

25. Creamy Crab Bisque

Sorry Italians, but we have to return to the French for this one (are we creating an unnecessary rivalry here? Are we the drama?). 

Bisque is a smooth and creamy, seasoned soup originally from France. This recipe captures the essence of this dish perfectly as it contains a variety of spices and nutritious veggies.

It also utilizes milk which enables it to have that creamy consistency. And of course, to top it off, 12 ounces of Alaskan King crab meat are thrown in to make the perfect seafood-inspired bisque. 

Calories Per Serving: n/a 

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes

26. Crab Poppers With Sriracha Aioli

This article has not disappointed when it comes to appetizer ideas and we aren’t done yet. If crab-stuffed mushrooms and egg rolls aren’t your thing, perhaps crab poppers will be more your style. 

Essentially, these poppers are made from your standard crab cake ingredients: crab, panko crumbs, onion, etc. What makes these poppers special is the complimentary dipping sauce. 

Although sriracha aioli sounds fancy it’s actually just made up of three elements: mayo, sriracha sauce and fresh garlic. It’s simple and delicious and will accompany your crab poppers perfectly. 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes 

27. Crab And Garlic Butter Pasta

Pasta holds a special place in our hearts so it’s only natural that we incorporate a variety of options into this article. 

This dish is super simple so there isn’t too much to say about it other than this quote taken directly from the author of the recipe, “Golden ribbons of spaghetti, glistening in garlic and chili butter, flaked with crab and drizzled in fresh lemon.”

Is your mouth also watering? 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: Not Available

28. Minnesota Crab Louie

If you’ve never heard of a crab Louie before don’t worry. Until a few minutes ago, we were in the same boat. Traditionally, a crab Louie is a salad served on a bed of lettuce with crab and a hard-boiled egg.

This recipe deviates from the classic dish slightly by incorporating imitation crab (check the FAQ at the end of the article for more details) as well as shrimp.

Then, to really increase the flavor factor, a creamy chili garlic sauce is also added. Can you say yuuminski?

Calories Per Serving: 358

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes 

RELATED: What Is The Best Number Of Crab legs Per Person?

  29. Crab Mac And Cheese

Homemade mac and cheese definitely has to be the poster dish for comfort foods. There’s just something about that warm, creamy cheese sauce that says, “I’m going to snuggle up on the couch in my PJs all day watching Netflix”. 

Now, I think we can all agree that mac and cheese by itself is quite immaculate but if you’re getting tired of making the same, old recipe adding something new such as (can you guess?), crab meat, is always a great alternative.

Crab meat, pasta, homemade cheese sauce and toasted breadcrumbs? Yes, please. 

Calories Per Serving: 677

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

30. Crab Stuffed Cucumber Cups With Old Bay Seasoning

Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or wanting to use up some of that leftover crab meat, these crab-stuffed cucumber cups will definitely become one of your seafood favorites. 

This recipe only requires 5 ounces of crab which is why it’s great to do with leftovers.

To balance out as well as heighten the flavors of the crab meat, ingredients such as onion, celery, hot sauce, lemon and old bay seasoning are also added. 

Because the sliced cucumbers have to have a small section scooped out of the center of them, this recipe is a little more finicky than some of the previous ones but we promise it’s totally worth it. 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

31. Crab Hush Puppies

And last but not least, we couldn’t forget these delectable crab hush puppies. 

Now, what are crab hush puppies you may ask? Crab hush puppies are deliciously crispy snacks filled with chunks of jumbo lump crab meat. They’re easy to make and perfect for a party appetizer. 

To make this dish the batter is prepared using green onion, red bell pepper, Creole seasoning, onion powder and beer. In addition, a small amount of sugar is added to bring out the sweet flavor of the crab.

Finally, serve the hush puppies with a creamy, homemade remoulade sauce and you will see how quickly they get eaten up. 

Calories Per Serving: Not Available

Preparation Time: 20 Minutes 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Crab Meat Healthy?

Yes! Crab meat is actually highly nutritious and contains a variety of beneficial vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C as well as B vitamins. In addition, as crab belongs to the seafood family, it is also full of omega-3 fatty acids.

If that isn’t enough to convince you to eat it, crab meat is also low in fat and high in protein. In terms of mercury, crab meat is viewed as one of the more low-risk kinds of seafood. 

What Is Lump Crab Meat?

Lump crab meat is a mixture of smaller or broken pieces of white crab meat that work best in crab cakes, dips, salads and casseroles. It can also be used as a “stuffer” such as in fish or chicken. 

What Is Imitation Crab? 

As the name implies, imitation crab meat is not actually crab at all. In fact, it is made up of two key components: whitefish paste and fillers, known as “surimi”.

Although it is still technically viewed as seafood, it differs from fresh crab in that it contains significantly more salt and preservatives. Despite this, imitation crab is frequently used as it is a much more affordable alternative.