Are you a seafood lover looking for a taste of the Chesapeake Bay? Look no further than blue crabs! These delicious crustaceans are a staple of Maryland cuisine, and once you try them, you’ll be hooked. With their sweet and tender flesh, it’s no wonder why blue crab recipes are so popular.
From classic dishes like steamed blue crabs to more adventurous creations like spicy blue crab sushi rolls, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a native Marylander or just looking to spice up your seafood game, these 18 delicious blue crab recipes are sure to become new favorites. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of blue crabs and explore the many ways they can be prepared and enjoyed.
Maryland-Style Steamed Blue Crabs
There’s nothing quite like the sweet and tender taste of steamed blue crabs, a Maryland tradition that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare this beloved seafood dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 live blue crabs (depending on size)
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 2 tablespoons salt
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crabs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the crabs, Old Bay seasoning, and salt.
3. Add enough water to the pot to reach the bottom of the steamer basket (about 2-3 inches).
4. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot with a lid or cheesecloth, and steam for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until the crabs turn bright red and the meat is opaque white.
6. Remove the crabs from the pot, and serve with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on crab size)
Spicy Blue Crab Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive Spicy Blue Crab Dip! Rich, creamy, and packed with the bold flavor of blue crab meat, this recipe is perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, blue crab meat, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and lightly golden brown on top.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Blue Crab Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with this indulgent pasta dish, featuring succulent blue crab meat and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 1 lb. jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add crab meat and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the crab mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add Worcestershire sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and crab cream sauce. Toss to coat, then serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Blue Crab Cakes
Classic Blue Crab Cakes: A Delicious Twist on a Seafood Classic
These succulent blue crab cakes are the perfect blend of fresh seafood, savory spices, and crispy texture. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these bite-sized morsels are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
2. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a round cake.
3. Heat the melted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crab cakes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blue Crab and Corn Chowder
This rich and flavorful chowder combines the sweetness of corn with the brininess of blue crab, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 medium ears of corn, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add corn, flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Stir in crab meat, heavy cream, and whole milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chowder cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Garlic Butter Blue Crab Legs
This recipe brings together the sweet flavor of blue crab legs and the richness of garlic butter, making for a decadent seafood dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound blue crab legs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the crab legs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Remove from heat and stir in paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the crab legs.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until crab is opaque and flakes easily.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Blue Crab Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this quick and savory blue crab stir-fry recipe. Served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Jasmine rice, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
5. Gently fold in blue crab meat; cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked jasmine rice and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweet and tender flavor of blue crab with the creamy richness of avocado, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or appetizer. The simplicity of this dish allows the natural flavors to shine, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh blue crab meat
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the blue crab meat with lime juice and olive oil.
2. Stir in diced avocado until well coated with the crab mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served immediately, but can be prepared ahead of time for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Louisiana Blue Crab Boil
Get ready for a taste of the Bayou with this classic Louisiana-style crab boil recipe! This mouthwatering dish is perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Louisiana blue crabs, fresh or frozen
– 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 4-6 corn on the cob, husked and silked
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and quartered
– 1 large yellow onion, peeled and quartered
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot or crab cooker with enough water to cover all ingredients.
2. Add Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, and lemon slices.
3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
4. Carefully add crabs, corn, bell pepper, and onion.
5. Boil for 8-10 minutes or until crabs are bright red and claws snap shut.
6. Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips: Use a crab cooker or large pot with a lid to make cleanup easier. For an extra burst of flavor, add 1/4 cup of white wine or beer to the boil.
Blue Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these decadent Blue Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Fresh crab meat, savory breadcrumbs, and a hint of spices come together to create a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup fresh blue crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, breadcrumbs, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, filling to the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Blue Crab Quesadillas
These mouthwatering quesadillas combine the sweetness of blue crab with the creaminess of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, cheese, cilantro, lime juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and brush with vegetable oil.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the crab mixture onto half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Blue Crab and Shrimp Étouffée
A Louisiana-inspired seafood stew that combines the sweetness of blue crab with the succulence of shrimp, all wrapped up in a spicy and flavorful étouffée sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock
– 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 celery; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 2 minutes.
5. Gradually add fish stock and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
6. Simmer for 10 minutes or until sauce thickens.
7. Add blue crab meat and shrimp; cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Blue Crab with Lemon-Herb Butter
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of blue crab elevated by a bright and zesty lemon-herb butter. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place blue crab meat on a piece of aluminum foil or a lightly oiled grilling basket.
4. Spread the lemon-herb butter evenly over the crab meat.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the crab is heated through and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Blue Crab and Grits
This classic Lowcountry dish combines the rich flavor of blue crab with creamy grits and a hint of spice, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup fresh blue crab meat, flaked
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir paprika into the crab mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the heavy cream (if using). Combine the crab mixture and grits, serving hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Blue Crab Sushi Rolls
Elevate your sushi game with these spicy blue crab rolls that combine the sweetness of crab with a kick of heat. This recipe is perfect for those who love trying new flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup sushi rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions and let it cool.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the sesame oil, soy sauce, and Sriracha sauce.
3. Gently combine the cooked blue crab meat with the sauce mixture.
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the spicy blue crab mixture in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Blue Crab Bisque with Sherry
Experience the rich flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with this decadent Blue Crab Bisque, elevated by the subtle sweetness of sherry. Perfect for a special occasion or as a luxurious appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb blue crab meat (jumbo lump)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sherry wine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, then gradually add milk and cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in crab meat, sherry wine, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the bisque has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Blue Crab Tacos with Lime Crema
Get ready to dive into a flavorful fusion of coastal cuisine with these succulent Blue Crab Tacos, topped with a tangy and refreshing Lime Crema. Perfect for a quick dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup pico de gallo
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Cilantro, chopped (optional)
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a skillet with about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, until slightly puffed.
3. In a separate pan, warm crab meat over low heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble tacos by placing warmed crab meat onto fried tortillas, followed by a spoonful of pico de gallo.
5. Drizzle Lime Crema over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Blue Crab Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of blue crab with the tanginess of a sweet and sour dressing, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the blue crab meat, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped scallions and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly of ingredients.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of blue crab with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic dishes like Maryland-Style Steamed Blue Crabs and Classic Blue Crab Cakes, to innovative creations like Cheesy Blue Crab Quesadillas and Spicy Blue Crab Sushi Rolls, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover how to incorporate this succulent crustacean into your meals with recipes that range from comfort food to international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of chowder or a light and refreshing salad, these blue crab recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
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