There’s a certain satisfaction in whipping up a dish that feels gourmet yet still finds its place in casual gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners. When I first bit into these Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks, I was captivated by their crunch and the creamy, savory goodness inside. Imagine a delightful bite revealing a luscious blend of crab, melted mozzarella, and just the right touch of seasoning, all perfectly nestled in a double-breaded coating.
On a recent evening, I was looking for something that would elevate my appetizer game, and this indulgent recipe delivered spectacularly. Not only are these sticks a feast for the taste buds, but they also provide that satisfying crunch that makes every gathering memorable. Paired with a zesty homemade remoulade, they transform into the ultimate finger food that friends and family can’t resist. Let’s dive into how to create these little bites of heaven!
Why are Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks a Must-Try?
Irresistible crunch: The double-breaded coating provides a satisfying crunch that makes each bite unforgettable.
Creamy filling: A rich blend of crab and melted mozzarella creates a decadent experience perfect for any occasion.
Quick & easy: With simple steps, you can whip up these gourmet delights in no time for any gathering.
Versatility: Enjoy them as appetizers, party snacks, or even as a unique side dish.
Crowd-pleaser: They’re the ultimate finger food that even the pickiest eaters will adore, especially when served with a zesty remoulade!
Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks Ingredients
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Adds richness and a smooth texture to the filling; substitute with mascarpone for a different creamy flavor.
- Lump Crab Meat – Provides a tender, sweet flavor essential to the crab filling; can substitute with a blend of crab varieties for varied taste.
- Claw Crab Meat – Offers a stronger crab flavor that complements the lump crab meat; can be replaced with more lump crab meat if desired.
- Shredded Mozzarella – Melts beautifully, adding gooeyness to the filling; use a low-moisture mozzarella for the best melt.
- Cubed Mozzarella – Adds surprise molten cheese bites within the sticks; substitute with cheese that holds together during frying, like fontina.
- Minced Shallot & Red Bell Pepper – Contributes a mild sweetness and crunch to the filling; skip shallots for a milder taste.
- Fresh Parsley & Chives – Enhances freshness and adds a pop of color; substitute with green onions for a more pronounced onion flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce & Garlic – Both deepen the flavor; use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire for an alternative flavor.
- Old Bay Seasoning & Black Pepper – Key spices that season the filling perfectly; Creole seasoning can be used for a spicier twist.
For the Coating
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a light, crispy coating; regular breadcrumbs can be used, but will yield a denser texture.
- Large Eggs & Water – Used for the egg wash that helps the breadcrumbs adhere; can substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
For the Remoulade Sauce
- Mayo – Creates a creamy base for the tangy sauce; Greek yogurt can be used in place of mayo for a lighter sauce.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a delightful sharpness to the remoulade; consider substituting with whole grain mustard for added texture.
Each delicious bite of these Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks paired with zesty remoulade will leave you and your guests craving more!
How to Make Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks
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Prepare Crab Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, cubed mozzarella, minced shallots, red bell pepper, parsley, chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it apart. Place the mixture in the freezer for about 2 hours until firm.
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Make Remoulade Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and any other desired ingredients until well combined. Cover and let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare Breadcrumbs: In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will enhance the overall flavor of your crispy coating.
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Make Egg Wash: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the crab sticks.
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Assemble: Cut the chilled crab filling into sticks. Dip each stick into the egg wash, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs for that double-crunch effect. Repeat until all the filling is coated.
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Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the sticks in batches, frying for approximately 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Serve: Enjoy the sticks hot from the fryer, served alongside the chilled remoulade sauce for a delightful dipping experience.
Optional: Pair with fresh lemon wedges for a zesty twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks?
To complement the indulgent flavors of these delightful crab sticks, consider these perfect pairing options that will elevate your dining experience.
- Fresh Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy crab sticks, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: Drizzling warm, melted garlic butter enhances the savory nature of the crab, providing an irresistible richness.
- Light Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a bright and zesty counterpoint to the fried sticks.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The subtle sweetness of sweet potato fries complements the savory crab sticks while adding a delightful crunch.
- Zesty Aioli: This creamy dip brings an extra layer of flavor, pairing wonderfully with the shrimp and crab-filled goodness of the sticks.
- Cold Beer: A light, crisp lager or a hoppy IPA shines next to the crispy jumbo lump crab mozzarella sticks, enhancing the overall indulgence.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, the effervescence and citrus notes of sparkling water cleanse the palate perfectly.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a light chocolate mousse, balancing the savory and indulgent flavors of the appetizers.
Storage Tips for Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks
Room Temperature: Store any leftover sticks at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating to maintain their safety and texture.
Fridge: Keep cooked sticks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked sticks on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. Fry from frozen when ready to serve.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover crispy jumbo lump crab mozzarella sticks, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warm and crispy again.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the filling and form the sticks up to 24 hours in advance by placing them in the freezer. To maintain their quality, layer the sticks between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container, which helps prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the frozen sticks directly for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This means you can impress guests with gourmet flavors without the last-minute hustle!
Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks Variations
Feel free to adjust these delicious sticks to fit your flavor preferences and dietary needs!
- Seafood Swap: Replace lump crab meat with shrimp for a delightful twist on texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or remoulade for a zesty, fiery enhancement that excites the taste buds.
- Cheese Blend: Try using pepper jack or a smoked cheese for an unexpected smokiness and heat in every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Fold in fresh dill or tarragon instead of parsley and chives for a refreshing herbal dimension.
- Vegan Makeover: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream and use flax eggs in the coating for a plant-based alternative that still satisfies.
- Crunchy Alternative: Swap panko for crushed tortilla chips as a unique, crunchy coating that adds a fun twist to your sticks.
- Chef’s Special: Incorporate a spoonful of creamy horseradish into the filling for a surprising zing that elevates the overall flavor.
- Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for an unexpected crunch and nutty depth.
Use these variations to make these Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks
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Temperature Check: Make sure your oil is heated to 350°F for perfectly crispy sticks; too low, and they’ll absorb oil and become soggy.
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Gentle Handling: When folding in the crab meat, be gentle to preserve those tender lumps. This ensures a delightful texture in every bite of your crispy jumbo lump crab mozzarella sticks.
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Double Coating: For extra crunch, don’t skip the double breading process. This creates that irresistible crispy layer that makes these sticks truly special.
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Batch Frying: Fry in small batches; overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy sticks. Patience pays off for perfect crunchiness!
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Chill Before Frying: Freezing the sticks before frying helps them hold their shape and enhances the crunch. This trick guarantees that your filling stays inside while frying!
Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks Recipe FAQs
What type of lump crab meat should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh or pasteurized lump crab meat. You can opt for a mix of claw and lump meat for a more robust flavor. If fresh isn’t available, canned lump crab meat works in a pinch—just ensure it’s thoroughly drained.
How should I store leftover sticks?
Store any cooked Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain their crunch, unlike microwaving, which can leave them soggy.
Can I freeze the crab mozzarella sticks?
Yes, you can! After assembling the sticks, freeze them on a baking sheet until they’re firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, fry them from frozen without thawing for the best results.
I’m having trouble with my sticks falling apart while frying; what can I do?
Very well! To prevent your sticks from falling apart, ensure that your crab filling is firm enough—freezing it for 2 hours is essential. Additionally, frying them in small batches at the correct temperature (350°F) is crucial. If they’re overcrowded, the oil cools down too much, causing them to break apart.
Can I make a gluten-free version of these sticks?
Yes, definitely! To make gluten-free Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks, you can replace panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially sauces, are gluten-free as well.
What’s the best way to serve the remoulade sauce?
I recommend serving the remoulade sauce chilled alongside the hot crab sticks for the perfect contrast in flavors. For added flair, you can garnish it with chopped chives or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Enjoy!
Crispy Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks with Zesty Remoulade
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, cubed mozzarella, minced shallots, red bell pepper, parsley, chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it apart. Place the mixture in the freezer for about 2 hours until firm.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and any other desired ingredients until well combined. Cover and let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until smooth.
- Cut the chilled crab filling into sticks. Dip each stick into the egg wash, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the sticks in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with the chilled remoulade sauce for dipping.