Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits

The moment you break open a freshly baked crab-stuffed cheddar bay biscuit, you're greeted with an aromatic cloud of garlic-scented steam and the sight of perfectly seasoned crab meat nestled in a golden, flaky shell. These biscuits transform the beloved seafood restaurant favorite into something even more special - a complete handheld meal that combines the comfort of warm bread with the luxury of sweet crab meat.

Last weekend, I served these at a family gathering and my seafood-skeptical niece ended up asking for the recipe. The secret? Using good quality lump crab meat and being generous with the garlic butter finish.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Lump Crab Meat: Look for refrigerated lump crab rather than canned. It should smell fresh and sweet with no fishy odor. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain well.
• Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: This gives us the perfect base without compromising flavor. The pre-seasoned mix actually enhances the final result.
• Ritz Crackers: Their buttery quality makes them superior to plain breadcrumbs. Crush them finely but not to dust - some texture is good.
• Fresh Garlic: Essential for both the biscuit dough and the filling. Pre-minced won't give you the same punch of flavor.

Pin it

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Biscuit Base Preparation:

Start with a preheated 375°F oven. Mix your biscuit dough according to package directions, adding extra garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes before handling.

Crab Filling Creation:

In a large bowl, gently fold together lump crab meat, mayonnaise, and seasonings. Add crushed Ritz crackers last, incorporating just until the mixture holds together.

Assembly Method:

With well-floured hands, take 2 tablespoons of biscuit dough and create a well in the center. Place a tablespoon of crab filling inside and carefully seal the dough around it. Place seam-side down in a muffin tin.

Baking Process:

Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. Look for golden tops and firm biscuits that spring back when touched.

My grandmother taught me to always brush baked goods with butter while they're still hot - it keeps the crust tender and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Temperature Monitoring

Watch the biscuits carefully in the last few minutes of baking. The difference between perfectly golden and over-browned can be just a minute or two. The internal temperature should reach 190°F for food safety.

Lemon Butter Finish

While the biscuits are baking, prepare your lemon butter. Melt butter slowly to prevent separation, then whisk in fresh lemon juice. Brush this mixture generously over the hot biscuits as soon as they come out of the oven.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the crab filling up to a day ahead, keeping it well-covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop fully.

Storage Solutions

Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them gently in a 300°F oven until just warmed through.

Pin it

Final Thoughts: These crab-stuffed cheddar bay biscuits represent the perfect marriage of comfort food and elegance. Through many iterations in my kitchen, I've found that success lies in treating both the biscuit dough and crab filling with equal care. The way the flaky, garlicky exterior gives way to that perfectly seasoned crab center, all enhanced by that final brush of lemon butter - it's a reminder that sometimes the best recipes are creative twists on classics we already love. Whether served as an impressive appetizer or alongside a bowl of soup, these biscuits never fail to make any meal feel special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the crab filling ahead, but the biscuits are best baked fresh and served warm.

→ What type of crab meat works best?

Lump crab meat is ideal as it provides the best texture and flavor while staying intact.

→ Can I freeze these biscuits?

While possible, freezing isn't recommended as it may affect the texture of both biscuit and filling.

→ What can I serve with these biscuits?

They work great as an appetizer or paired with a light salad for a meal.

→ Can I use homemade biscuit dough?

Yes, you can substitute your favorite biscuit recipe for the packaged mix.