Crabmeat

Various species (e.g., Callinectes sapidus - Blue Crab) Seafood / Shellfish

Crabmeat Seafood / Shellfish

At a Glance

  • Category Seafood / Shellfish

The Forktionary Angle

"The Ocean's Sweetest Treat"

Definition

The sweet, delicate flesh of crabs, prized for its unique flavor and texture, used in a wide range of seafood dishes globally.

Best Use (Lump) Crab cakes, salads
Protein Content (per 100g) Approx. 19g
Types (Common) Blue, Dungeness, King, Snow

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Crabmeat are:

Sweet Briny Delicate Umami

Chef’s Secret

When making crab cakes, minimize fillers to truly highlight the crab. Use just enough binder (like mayo or egg) to hold it together, and chill thoroughly before cooking for best texture.

Best Substitutes

Cooked Shrimp

chop finely
Ratio 1:1

Langostino Tails

similar texture
Ratio 1:1

Cod or Haddock

flaked, less sweet
Ratio 1:1

Surimi/Imitation Crab

different quality
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Fresh is best. For pre-picked, choose pasteurized lump or jumbo lump for salads/cakes. Check sustainability ratings for wild-caught.

Recipes Using Crabmeat

Seafood 60 Minutes Or Less Course Preparation

Panko Crusted Crab Cake Bites With Roasted Pepper Chive Aioli

Indulge in these delectable Panko Crusted Crab Cake Bites, bursting with succulent crab meat and a vibrant, zesty Roasted Pepper Chive Aioli. The crispy panko crust complements the tender crab perfectly, creating a flavor explosion in every bite! This recipe is perfect for appetizers, parties, or a sophisticated weeknight dinner. Make the aioli ahead of time for effortless preparation.

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Appetizers Meat Thai Appetizers

Banana Chilli Stuffed With Crab And Chicken In Green Curry Sauce

Spice up your weeknight with this explosive fusion recipe! Sweet banana chilies are perfectly balanced by succulent crab and chicken, all enveloped in a fragrant, creamy green curry sauce. This vibrant dish is easier to make than you think and delivers an unforgettable flavor experience. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Crab Appetizers Low Carb Very Low Carbs

Crab Dip

This creamy crab dip recipe is bursting with flavor! A zesty kick of horseradish is balanced by rich cream cheese and succulent crab meat. Prepare to be warned: it's so addictive, your guests (and you!) might burn their mouths trying to eat it before it cools! Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, served with pita chips or crackers. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Cuisine Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less Shellfish

3 Cheese Crab Quesadillas

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these incredible 3 Cheese Crab Quesadillas! A flavorful twist on a classic, this recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Juicy crab meat blends perfectly with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses, all brought together with a zesty cocktail sauce. Get ready for a cheesy, crabby explosion in your mouth! Perfect for a family dinner or a fun appetizer.

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Time To Make Crab Italian Cuisine

A Cheaper Cioppino

Craving a flavorful cioppino but watching your wallet? Food columnist Renee Enna's recipe delivers a toothsome fish stew without breaking the bank! This budget-friendly version uses affordable firm white fish (like cod or tilapia), shredded crab for richness, and hearty mushrooms for texture, replacing pricey shellfish. Enjoy the depth of flavor from low-sodium tomatoes and aromatic herbs, all simmered to perfection. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of this incredible, low-sodium (optional) seafood stew. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Appetizers Cheese

Awesome Cheesy Hot Crab Dip

This award-winning cheesy crab dip recipe, inspired by a Southern Living magazine, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Get ready for a flavor explosion of creamy goodness, zesty lemon, spicy Tabasco, and the sweet taste of crab, all baked to bubbly perfection. Customize it with extra Old Bay, Tabasco, and scallions for an extra kick! Serve with crusty French bread for the ultimate dip experience. Prepare to be amazed!

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Shrimp Easter Course Spicy

Amazing Crab Stuffed Pasta Shells

Craving a decadent and impressive Easter dinner? These Amazing Crab Stuffed Pasta Shells are the answer! I perfected this recipe by combining the best elements from 10 different recipes, resulting in a dish that's incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Each jumbo pasta shell is brimming with a creamy blend of crab, shrimp, and scallions, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Pro-tip: Consider using smaller pasta shells for easier portion control, or simply cut the larger ones in half before serving – these are incredibly filling!

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Preparation Shellfish Low Calorie Soups Stews

Big Sams Mushroom And Crab Soup

Inspired by a Kennett Square Mushroom Festival find! This decadent Big Sam's Mushroom & Crab Soup recipe features succulent crab meat, earthy mushrooms, and a rich broth, all served in cozy homemade bread bowls. A perfect fall or winter warmer that's sure to impress your guests. Get ready for a taste of Pennsylvania's mushroom magic!

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Seafood Equipment 30 Minutes Or Less Low Carb

Baked Crabmeat Dip

This creamy, dreamy Baked Crabmeat Dip recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Inspired by a cherished recipe from a high school friend, this appetizer is incredibly easy to make and boasts a delightful blend of creamy cheese, succulent crabmeat, and a hint of horseradish. Perfect for parties, weddings, or a cozy night in, this warm dip is guaranteed to impress. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Course Time To Make Preparation Main Dish

Acapulco's Crab Avocado Enchiladas With Cilantro Cream Recipe

Experience the taste of Acapulco's finest Mexican restaurant with this authentic Crab & Avocado Enchilada recipe! Flaky crab meat, creamy avocado, and a vibrant cilantro-lime crema combine in warm corn tortillas, topped with zesty salsa and melted cheese. A quick and easy weeknight meal that tastes like a gourmet experience.

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Beginner Cook Easy Course Main Ingredient

Asparagus Crab Tarragon Bisque Shanachie

Indulge in this luxurious Asparagus Crab Tarragon Bisque, a culinary masterpiece from renowned Chef Brian Duffy of Shanachie Restaurant! Originally showcased at a cooking class, this recipe delivers a vibrant spring soup bursting with fresh asparagus and flavorful crab claw meat. Shanachie's signature seafood soup, perfect for a sophisticated dinner party or a special occasion. Makes approximately 12 (8oz) servings.

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Preparation Main Dish Pasta Preparation

Al Lewis Spinach Fettuccine With Crab Sauce

A family favorite recipe inspired by Al Lewis (Grandpa from The Munsters)! This creamy spinach and crab fettuccine is surprisingly easy and quick to make, delivering big flavor in just 20 minutes. Get ready for a taste of spooky deliciousness – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun themed party! #Munsters #AlLewis #SpinachCrabFettuccine #EasyRecipe #PastaRecipe #WeeknightDinner

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Appetizers Easy Main Ingredient Cuisine

All Saints Summer Supper Maryland Crab Cakes

A taste of Southern Maryland tradition! This recipe recreates the legendary crab cakes from the All Saints Episcopal Church's annual summer supper. Developed over generations, this family-friendly recipe delivers authentic Maryland flavor with juicy lump crab meat, perfectly seasoned and pan-seared to golden perfection. Enjoy these delicious crab cakes as an appetizer, entree, or even in a mouthwatering crab cake sandwich. Get ready for a culinary journey to the Chesapeake Bay!

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Dietary Tropical Fruit Main Ingredient Low In Something

Avocado With Spicy Crabmeat

Impress your guests with this quick and easy spicy avocado and crabmeat appetizer! A vibrant blend of creamy avocado, succulent crabmeat, and a hint of fiery spice makes this the perfect starter for any occasion. Ready in minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Easily customize the spice level to your liking!

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Low In Something Low Saturated Fat Course Time To Make

Baked Crab Cakes

Transform leftover king crab into succulent, golden-brown crab cakes! This recipe, inspired by a happy husband and perfected through experimentation, delivers tender crab cakes with a crispy panko crust. Easy to follow instructions and minimal prep time make this a perfect weeknight meal or impressive appetizer. Get ready to impress your loved ones with these restaurant-quality crab cakes!

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15 Minutes Or Less Course Crab Shellfish

Ali's Real Crab Crab Dip Hot Or Cold

Indulge in this irresistible, slightly spicy crab dip recipe! Inspired by a Jacksonville, NC marina cafe, this creamy delight is perfect served hot or cold with toasted ciabatta bread. The perfect appetizer or party snack, it's easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests. Get ready for a taste of the coast!

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15 Minutes Or Less Shellfish Course 15 Minutes Or Less

Annapolis Crab Appetizers

Whip up these elegant Annapolis Crab Appetizers in minutes! Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight snack, this recipe features succulent crab meat on toasted English muffins, topped with a creamy, zesty cheese sauce. Make them ahead and freeze for effortless entertaining – simply broil until bubbly and golden brown. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Holiday Event Dips 15 Minutes Or Less Occasion

Aunt Norma's Spectacular Crab Dip

This legendary crab dip recipe, once guarded by Aunt Norma and fetching a $25 price tag, is finally revealed! Get ready for a creamy, dreamy, garlicky seafood sensation that'll have your guests begging for more. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a cozy night in – this easy-to-make dip is guaranteed to impress. Prepare to be amazed!

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