Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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

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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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Southern / Seafood