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This crab-stuffed Cheddar Bay biscuit recipe transforms ordinary biscuits into an impressive seafood-filled treat that's perfect for special dinners or weekend brunches. The combination of flaky, cheesy biscuits with delicate crab filling creates a restaurant-worthy dish that comes together easily in your home kitchen.
I first made these for a summer dinner party when I wanted something special but didn't have all day to cook. My guests were so impressed they thought I'd ordered from a seafood restaurant I now make them whenever crab is on sale.
Ingredients
- Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: serves as our time-saving base while still delivering that irresistible cheesy garlic flavor
- Garlic powder: enhances the savory profile and complements the sweetness of the crab
- Italian seasoning: adds depth to the biscuit exterior with minimal effort
- Lump crab meat: provides the best texture and flavor use fresh if available but quality canned works well too
- Paprika: adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color to the filling
- Onion powder: gives savory depth without the texture of fresh onions which keeps the filling delicate
- Mayonnaise: binds the crab filling together while adding richness
- Mustard: offers a tangy counterpoint to the sweet crab meat
- Ritz crackers: create the perfect texture for the filling with their buttery flavor and light crunch
- Parmesan cheese: adds a salty umami element that enhances the crab flavor
- Butter and lemon juice: create a simple but effective finishing touch that brightens the entire dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Mix the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix according to package directions but elevate it by adding garlic powder and Italian seasoning. The seasoning will infuse throughout the dough creating a flavor-packed exterior for your crab filling. Make sure not to overmix the dough to keep the biscuits tender.
- Preheat and Prep:
- Get your oven hot at 375°F while thoroughly spraying your muffin tins with nonstick spray. The spray is crucial as these stuffed biscuits can stick easily due to their cheese content. Use a generous coating to ensure easy removal later.
- Create the Filling:
- Gently fold together crab meat paprika onion powder mustard mayonnaise and crushed Ritz crackers. Work carefully to keep crab chunks intact for the best texture experience. Add mayonnaise gradually until the mixture holds together but remains light never dense or pasty.
- Form the Biscuits:
- With floured hands scoop biscuit dough and shape it into a cup in your palm. This technique requires patience but creates the perfect vessel. Make a deep enough depression for a generous amount of crab filling while ensuring the walls remain thick enough to contain it during baking.
- Fill and Seal:
- Spoon the crab mixture into each biscuit cup being careful not to overfill. Cover with additional biscuit dough and pinch the edges to create a complete seal. Any gaps will allow the precious filling to leak out during baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place each filled biscuit into the prepared muffin tin and bake until the exterior turns golden brown about 12 to 15 minutes. Look for slight cracking on the surface which indicates they're fully baked.
- Finish with Brightness:
- The moment they emerge from the oven brush generously with lemon butter which will soak into the hot biscuits adding a fresh citrus note that cuts through the richness of the dish.
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The lump crab meat is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered this when making them with different grades of crab and the difference was remarkable. The large pieces of sweet crab create pockets of flavor throughout the biscuit that simply cannot be achieved with shredded or imitation crab.
Make Ahead Options
These stuffed biscuits work beautifully for meal prep and entertaining. You can prepare the crab filling up to one day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. The biscuit cups can be formed filled and arranged in the muffin tins several hours before baking just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for the best results.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover biscuits will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat place them in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave which will make the biscuits soggy. For best results prepare a fresh lemon butter sauce to brush on after reheating to revive the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These crab stuffed biscuits shine as the centerpiece of a meal but pair beautifully with sides. Serve them with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the seafood flavors. For a more substantial meal add roasted asparagus or a light corn chowder. They also make excellent appetizers for a cocktail party especially when paired with a crisp white wine or champagne.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of crab meat should I use?
Use lump crab meat for its rich flavor and ideal texture. Ensure it's fully cooked before mixing.
- → Can I use a different biscuit mix?
Yes, any biscuit mix can work, but Cheddar Bay biscuit mix adds extra flavor.
- → How do I ensure the biscuits stay moist?
Make sure to properly seal the biscuit dough around the crab filling and don't overbake.
- → What can I serve with these biscuits?
Pair with a fresh salad, citrusy dip, or enjoy them alone as a savory snack.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the biscuits in advance and reheat in the oven before serving for the best results.