Elegant Crab Meat Balls
Elegant crab meat balls wrapped in bacon offer a savory blend of seafood and smoky flavors, perfect as an appetizer for special occasions or sophisticated gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and flake the crabmeat; combine with bread crumbs, sherry, lemon juice, grated onion, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into walnut-sized balls.
- Wrap each ball with a bacon half and secure with a toothpick.
- Broil under medium heat until the bacon is crisp, about 10 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try replacing the crabmeat with cooked shrimp or scallops if preferred. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. If you want to reduce the cooking time, consider using pre-cooked bacon. Ensure to not overmix the crab mixture to keep the meat tender. Pair these crab meat balls with a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant crab meat balls are perfect as appetizers at parties or gatherings. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or with a zesty cocktail sauce. They also pair beautifully with Bacon Muffins for a delightful brunch spread. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges for an attractive presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab meat balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elegant Crab Meat Balls contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make crab meat balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab meat balls in advance and store them before cooking. Shape the balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, proceed with the broiling instructions.
What type of crab meat is best for this recipe?
For the best flavor and texture, use lump or backfin crab meat. These varieties provide a nice balance of meatiness and tenderness. Canned crab meat works well for convenience, but fresh or frozen crab is preferred if available. Always check for any shell fragments before using.
Can I freeze the cooked crab meat balls?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked crab meat balls for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).