Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
If you’re looking for the kind of appetizer that instantly brightens a table and sparks conversation, Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are your golden ticket. A heavenly meeting of buttery Cheddar Bay biscuit dough and a creamy, flavor-packed crab filling, this dish is pure comfort with a delicious coastal twist. Picture tender, cheesy biscuits, oozing with tangy, herby, ever-so-slightly decadent crab, all brushed with lemony butter for the ultimate finish. Whether you’re a dinner party host or just treating yourself to something special, these crave-worthy bites check every box!

Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes these Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits shine is their reliance on accessible, familiar ingredients—each one delivering something essential to the final flavor, texture, and color. You truly don’t need an overloaded pantry to create a bakery-worthy bite!
- Cheddar Bay biscuit mix: Gives the biscuits their iconic garlicky, cheesy flavor and beautifully fluffy texture.
- Italian seasoning: Adds vibrancy and aromatic herbs that marry perfectly with the crab and cheese.
- Garlic powder: For that mellow, deeply savory backbone every good biscuit needs.
- Lump crab meat: The star of the show—use the freshest you can find for the sweetest flavor and juiciest texture.
- Mayonnaise: Binds everything together and gives the filling its luscious, creamy consistency.
- Paprika: Imparts subtle color and a whisper of smoky depth to the crab mixture.
- Onion powder: Another layer of savoriness, mellow but absolutely memorable.
- Dijon mustard (optional): For a gentle kick and a little tang—totally up to your taste!
- Ritz crackers or Parmesan cheese (optional): Crushed crackers add an old-school, buttery crunch, while Parmesan gives a salty depth—pick your favorite or combine both.
- Salt and pepper: The essential duo that elevates every element of the dish.
- Melted butter mixed with lemon juice: Brushed on post-bake for extra silkiness and a pop of citrusy freshness.
How to Make Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Step 1: Mix the Biscuit Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C)—we want it hot and ready! Whip up your Cheddar Bay biscuit dough following the package instructions, but here’s the secret: blend in the Italian seasoning and garlic powder right into the mix. This step infuses every bite with those savory, herby notes that separate homemade from “just OK.” Stir just until combined—overmixing can make biscuits tough.
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Filling
In a separate bowl, gently fold together your lump crab meat, mayonnaise, paprika, onion powder, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Add in the crushed crackers or Parmesan cheese, then season to taste with salt and pepper. The goal is a rich, moist filling that holds its shape—add a touch more mayo if it seems dry. Gentle handling preserves the crab’s lovely texture!
Step 3: Form the Biscuit Cups
Lightly dust your hands with flour; biscuit dough can be a bit sticky. Take small portions of the dough and flatten them into rounds, pressing each into the cups of a muffin tin to create a little nest. This helps cradle all that gorgeous crab stuffing and ensures a crispy golden edge. Work with a gentle touch for fluffier biscuits.
Step 4: Fill and Enclose
Spoon generous portions of the crab mixture into each biscuit nest. Once filled, take a little more dough and fold or pat it gently over the top, sealing the filling inside. Don’t worry if they’re rustic or a bit uneven—imperfections add to their irresistible homey appeal!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tin in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, keeping an eye out for that enticing golden color and irresistible aroma. The biscuits should be cooked through with a slightly crispy top, and the filling bubbling just a bit—it’s hard not to peek (trust me, I get it)!
Step 6: Brush and Serve
While the Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are still warm, whisk together your melted butter and lemon juice. Brush this magic elixir over every surface, letting it soak into the cracks for extra zing and richness. Serve warm for the ultimate experience—truly, nothing beats the aroma!
How to Serve Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Garnishes
Finish these beauties with a sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Sometimes, a light dusting of extra paprika or a twist of black pepper ups the visual appeal. Lemon wedges on the side invite your guests to squeeze and adjust brightness to their taste.
Side Dishes
Pair your Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. They also make a dreamy companion to grilled asparagus, a bowl of chowder, or anything that lets their buttery, seafood essence shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try serving the biscuits on a big platter scattered with lemon slices and fresh herbs. Make mini versions for bite-sized appetizers, or pack them into a picnic basket for a seaside lunch. A drizzle of remoulade or a dollop of herby aioli on the side turns them into show-stopping starters.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any remaining Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh, moist, and delicious for up to two days. If possible, wait to brush with lemon butter until just before reheating to maintain that signature sheen and bold flavor.
Freezing
Once fully cooled, you can freeze these biscuits for a make-ahead treat. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag—they’ll keep well for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
To restore that just-baked magic, reheat biscuits in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325°F for 8 to 10 minutes. A quick brush with fresh lemon butter after reheating revives their vibrant, succulent character. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can make the biscuits a little tough.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab instead of lump crab meat?
You can, though the flavor and texture will be different. Real lump crab brings a sweet, delicate taste and a juicy texture that truly make the biscuits shine. If you use imitation, add a bit more seasoning to punch up the flavor.
Is there a gluten-free way to make Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Absolutely! Select a gluten-free biscuit mix and substitute gluten-free crackers or cheese for the filling. Many stores now carry gluten-free versions of classic mixes that work beautifully in this recipe.
Can I assemble these ahead and bake later?
Yes, you can prepare the crab filling up to a day in advance and keep it chilled. Shape and assemble the biscuits just before baking to ensure the best texture and rise. They’re a fantastic make-ahead option for stress-free entertaining.
What if I don’t have a muffin tin?
No muffin tin? No problem! Simply shape the dough and filling into small rounds and place them close together on a lined baking sheet. They may spread a little, but you’ll still get delicious results.
Are Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits good served cold?
While they’re most magical served warm, these biscuits can be enjoyed at room temperature or even cold the next day. For parties or lunchboxes, they hold up nicely as a savory, satisfying snack.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to steal the show at your next gathering, bake up a batch of Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits and watch them disappear! Whether for a cozy night or festive celebration, they deliver all the cheesy, crab-filled delight you crave—trust me, you’ll be asked for the recipe again and again. Give these a try, and let every bite whisk you away to comfort food paradise!
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Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 biscuits 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delectable Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits that combine the irresistible flavors of crab and cheddar in a savory biscuit. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these biscuits are sure to impress your guests with their rich, seafood-inspired taste.
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
- 1 package Cheddar Bay biscuit mix
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Filling:
- 1 pound lump crab meat
- ½ cup mayonnaise (plus more if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed) or ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons melted butter mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice for brushing after baking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190 °C).
- Prepare Biscuit Mix: Prepare the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix according to package directions, adding Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, mix lump crab meat, mayonnaise, paprika, onion powder, Dijon mustard, crushed crackers or Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Shape and Fill: Shape biscuit mix into cups, place in muffin tin, fill with crab mixture, and enclose with remaining dough.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Brush and Serve: After baking, brush warm biscuits with melted butter and lemon juice. Serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to vary the filling with cayenne, extra cheese, or fresh herbs.
- Delicious with salad, soup, or as an appetizer.
- Prepare filling ahead for easy entertaining.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Seafood-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 biscuit (approx. 70g)
- Calories: 220–250 kcal
- Sugar: 1–3 g
- Sodium: 300–350 mg
- Fat: 12–18 g
- Saturated Fat: ~7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~4–6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20–23 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Protein: 5–6 g
- Cholesterol: 30–60 mg