Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Crab Bites are crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, and packed with sweet crab meat and savory seasonings. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties, game days, or seafood lovers looking for a quick and easy treat. Using the air fryer gives you all the crunch without the excess oil, making them a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

lump crab meat
cream cheese
mayonnaise
shredded mozzarella cheese
green onions
garlic powder
Old Bay seasoning
lemon juice
salt
pepper
panko breadcrumbs
egg
non-stick cooking spray

directions

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, mozzarella, green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Gently fold in the lump crab meat to keep the chunks intact.

Form the mixture into small balls or bite-sized patties.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.

Dip each crab bite into the egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Lightly spray the crab bites with non-stick cooking spray and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Remove and let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 18–20 crab bites.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add finely chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Use cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy twist.
Swap panko for crushed crackers or gluten-free crumbs if desired.
Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftover crab bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
For longer storage, freeze uncooked bites on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes to cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat?

Yes, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly from real lump crab meat.

Do I need to pre-cook the crab meat?

If using fresh or canned lump crab, it’s already cooked and ready to use.

Can I bake these instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What sauce goes best with crab bites?

Tartar sauce, remoulade, or spicy aioli are all great options.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, form and bread them in advance and refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, any meltable cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère works well.

How do I keep them from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well-chilled before forming the bites, and don’t skip the egg and breadcrumb coating.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, especially if served with a mild dipping sauce.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and omit the mozzarella or use a plant-based version.

What’s the best crab to use?

Fresh lump crab meat is ideal for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Crab Bites are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the rich taste of crab with a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a seafood snack, these bites come together quickly and disappear just as fast. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch ready to go for any occasion.