Cajun Crab Croquettes

Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside—these Cajun Crab Croquettes are a Southern-inspired seafood delight. Packed with juicy crab meat, bold Cajun spices, and just the right amount of crunch, these golden croquettes are perfect as an appetizer, light meal, or party bite. Serve them hot with a creamy dipping sauce or fresh salad for a dish that brings a little spice to any table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold & Flavorful – Spiced with Cajun seasoning for a flavorful punch.
Perfectly Crispy – Golden crust with a soft, crab-filled center.
Great for Entertaining – A crowd-pleasing party appetizer or brunch bite.
Make Ahead Friendly – Prep and chill in advance for easy frying.
Versatile – Serve with salad, sauce, or as part of a seafood spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Croquettes:

• 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• ¼ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onion
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Oil for shallow frying (vegetable or canola)

Optional for Serving:

• Spicy remoulade or aioli
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh greens or coleslaw

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Skillet or sauté pan
Tongs or slotted spoon
Plate lined with paper towels
Shallow bowls (for dredging)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Crab Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, bell pepper, green onion, egg, mayo, mustard, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and parsley.
Gently fold until just combined—do not overmix to keep the crab pieces intact.

Step 2: Shape and Chill
Form the mixture into small patties or oval-shaped croquettes, about 2 inches wide.
Place on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Coat the Croquettes
Pour extra breadcrumbs into a shallow dish.
Roll each chilled croquette in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry croquettes in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve with Sauce & Garnish
Serve warm with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce like remoulade, aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Tips for the Best Crab Croquettes
Use Lump Crab Meat – For the best texture and flavor.
Chill Before Frying – Helps the croquettes hold their shape.
Don’t Crowd the Pan – Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.
Add Heat – Increase Cajun seasoning or add a dash of cayenne if you love spice.
Keep It Light – Serve with greens, citrus, or a vinegary slaw for balance.

Serving Suggestions
As Appetizers – Serve on a platter with multiple dipping sauces.
With a Salad – A fresh garden salad or arugula with vinaigrette complements the richness.
In a Sandwich – Stuff into a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and sauce.
With Rice or Grits – Make it a Southern-inspired meal.
At Brunch – Add to a brunch board with eggs, smoked salmon, and fruit.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze uncooked croquettes on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until crisp.
Air Fryer: Air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes.
Skillet: Pan-fry on low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes—place croquettes on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. What’s the best dipping sauce?
A spicy remoulade, lemon aioli, or simple hot sauce mayo all pair beautifully.

3. Can I use canned crab?
Yes—just be sure to drain it well and flake gently before mixing.

4. Are these spicy?
Mild to medium heat—adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference.

5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely—use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check your seasonings.

Final Thoughts
Cajun Crab Croquettes are the perfect mix of crispy texture, spicy flavor, and creamy crab goodness. Whether served as an appetizer or light entrée, these bite-sized delights bring the taste of the bayou to your kitchen—no deep fryer required.

Make them for your next gathering or a weeknight treat—you’ll love every crunchy, crabby bite!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Southern / Seafood

Nutritional Information (Per Croquette, makes 12):
Calories: 120 | Protein: 7g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 290mg

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