Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to enjoy the sweet and succulent flavor of blue crab? Look no further! From classic Maryland-style steamed blue crabs to spicy boils, creamy dips, and decadent pasta dishes, we’ve got 19 delicious blue crab recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a native Chesapeake Bay resident or just a fan of the region’s famous crustaceans, these mouthwatering recipes will transport you straight to the coast.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of blue crab and explore everything from traditional dishes like blue crab cakes and chowders to innovative twists like Thai-style curries and Vietnamese spring rolls. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your apron, gather your favorite ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the rich flavor of the Chesapeake Bay’s finest export: blue crab.
Maryland-Style Steamed Blue Crabs
Experience the classic Chesapeake Bay flavor with this simple recipe that showcases the star of the show: succulent blue crabs. Perfect for a family gathering or seafood-loving friends, these steamed crustaceans are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2-4 blue crabs (1-2 pounds), depending on size and appetite
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– Water for steaming
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crabs under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the crabs and add enough water to reach the bottom of the pan.
3. Add Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and beer (if using).
4. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and steam for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until the shells turn bright blue and the meat is opaque white.
6. Remove the crabs from the steamer and serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Cakes
These classic crab cakes are a staple of Chesapeake Bay cuisine, featuring fresh blue crab meat and a crispy cornmeal crust. Serve with your favorite tartar sauce and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely ground yellow cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, cornmeal, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
2. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a patty shape.
3. Heat melted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add crab cakes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve hot with tartar sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Blue Crab Boil with Corn and Potatoes
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the sweetness of corn and potatoes with the spiciness of blue crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb blue crab claws, shells removed
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup whole kernel corn
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the crab claws, corn, potatoes, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Stir well.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the crab is pink and the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Blue Crab Dip with Old Bay Seasoning
Elevate your snack game with this rich and creamy blue crab dip infused with the bold flavors of Old Bay seasoning. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add blue crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice; mix well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
7. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful chowder that combines the sweetness of corn with the succulent taste of blue crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound blue crab meat, flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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 the onion is translucent.
3. Add corn kernels and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in blue crab meat, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Blue Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent blue crab and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine blue crab meat, softened butter, flour, cheddar cheese, and chopped scallions. Mix well until combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the crab mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Blue Crab Pasta
A rich and indulgent pasta dish that combines the sweetness of blue crab with the savory flavors of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat, lump or claw
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the blue crab meat and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the garlic butter-blue crab mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of ripe avocados with the tanginess of blue crab, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delightful snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado, blue crab meat, and red onion.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation only)
Southern Fried Blue Crab Clusters
A classic Southern recipe that combines the sweetness of blue crab with a crispy, golden-brown coating. These clusters are perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, flour, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese to the crab mixture; stir until just combined.
3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
4. Shape the crab mixture into 8-10 clusters. Dip each cluster into the beaten eggs, then coat with additional panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the clusters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blue Crab and Shrimp Étouffée
Étouffée, a classic Louisiana dish, gets a decadent twist with the addition of blue crab and succulent shrimp. This rich and creamy stew is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb blue crab meat
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add blue crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk to make a roux, cooking over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
6. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
7. Add paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
8. Combine crab-shrimp mixture with sauce; serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blue Crab Imperial with Breadcrumbs
A decadent seafood dish that combines succulent blue crab meat with crispy breadcrumbs and a hint of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine blue crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the mixture into a baking dish or individual ramekins.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the crab is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai-Style Blue Crab Curry
Thai-Style Blue Crab Curry Recipe
This vibrant and flavorful curry showcases the sweetness of blue crab meat, combined with the bold flavors of Thai spices and coconut milk. Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook 1 minute.
4. Add crab meat, coconut milk, water, fish sauce (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until crab is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Cheese Grits
Start your day with a rich and satisfying breakfast by combining the flavors of blue crab, cheese, and creamy grits. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the grits are creamy.
2. Stir in the butter and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Add the chopped blue crab meat and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Blue Crab Spring Rolls
Experience the freshness of Vietnam with these delicate spring rolls filled with succulent blue crab, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or at an Asian market)
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine blue crab meat, cilantro, scallions, and carrot.
2. Add soy sauce and fish sauce (if using) to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Fry the spring rolls in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side).
7. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (including wrapping time)
Blue Crab Bisque with Sherry
This Blue Crab Bisque with Sherry is a luxurious and aromatic soup that’s perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat. The combination of succulent blue crab, rich sherry, and aromatics creates a truly indulgent experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sherry
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add white wine and bring to a simmer. Cook until reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream, sherry, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add blue crab meat and stir gently to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Louisiana Blue Crab Po’ Boy Sandwich
Experience the authentic taste of Louisiana with this mouthwatering blue crab po’ boy sandwich. Freshly caught blue crabs are mixed with creamy remoulade sauce, crispy lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all piled high on a crispy French baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound blue crab meat
– 1/4 cup remoulade sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula)
– 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 4 French baguettes
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together blue crab meat, remoulade sauce, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning until well combined.
3. Split the baguettes in half and toast until crispy.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of crab mixture on each baguette half, followed by mixed greens, tomato slices, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Fry the sandwiches in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent blue crab and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine blue crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the blue crab mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes to golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Blue Crab Legs
Add a Caribbean twist to your seafood with this flavorful Jamaican Jerk seasoning. This recipe combines the sweetness of blue crab legs with the bold, spicy flavors of Jamaica.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound blue crab legs
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse crab legs under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix jerk seasoning and olive oil.
4. Brush the jerk mixture evenly onto both sides of the crab legs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crab is opaque and flakes easily.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blue Crab Deviled Eggs
Take your deviled eggs to the next level with the addition of succulent blue crab meat, adding a delightful oceanic flavor and texture. This recipe is perfect for a seafood-inspired gathering or as a unique addition to your brunch spread.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika, chopped chives, or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the egg whites and let them cool.
2. In a bowl, combine the egg yolks, blue crab meat, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Cut the cooled egg whites in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
4. Fill each egg white half with the blue crab deviled yolk mixture, mounding slightly.
5. Garnish with paprika, chives, or parsley.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tender flavors of blue crab with these 19 mouthwatering recipes! From classic Maryland-style steamed crabs to spicy boils, creamy dips, and decadent pasta dishes, there’s something for every seafood lover. Try your hand at blue crab cakes, stuffed mushrooms, or imperial with breadcrumbs, or explore international flavors like Thai curry and Vietnamese spring rolls. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, these recipes are sure to delight.
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