Get ready to spice up your seafood game with these mouth-watering, tongue-tingling, and downright delicious blue crab recipes! With its rich flavor profile and firm texture, blue crab is a prized ingredient in many cuisines. And when you add a dash of heat, the possibilities are endless.
From classic boils and cakes to global-inspired curries and chowders, we’ve rounded up 20 spicy blue crab recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of seafood, these recipes offer something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the Chesapeake Bay region, the Gulf Coast, and beyond, showcasing the versatility and flair that blue crab brings to any dish. So grab your apron, fire up your stove, and get ready to indulge in the spicy, sweet, and savory flavors of our favorite crustacean.
Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Boil
This traditional Maryland-style boil combines succulent blue crabs with savory aromatics and spices, resulting in a mouthwatering seafood feast. Perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lbs live or pre-cooked blue crabs
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup yellow mustard
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 6-8 cups water
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot or steamer with enough water to cover the crabs.
2. Add Old Bay seasoning, salt, yellow mustard, and lemon slices.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Add the garlic and stir well.
5. If using beer, add it to the pot (optional).
6. Carefully place the blue crabs in the pot, making sure they’re fully submerged.
7. Cover the pot and steam for 8-10 minutes or until the crabs are bright blue and cooked through.
8. Remove the crabs from the pot with tongs or a slotted spoon.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Blue Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Experience the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with these spicy blue crab cakes, perfectly balanced by a tangy remoulade sauce. Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, these bites are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball, then flatten slightly into patties.
4. Fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Serve with remoulade sauce and your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Garlic Butter Blue Crab Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this decadent pasta dish featuring succulent blue crab, garlic butter, and al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice and white wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Stir in blue crab meat. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through, adding reserved pasta water as needed to maintain moisture.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and blue crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the brininess of blue crab, making for a perfect summer soup. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Add chicken broth, blue crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Let soup simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maryland-Style Steamed Blue Crabs
Experience the authentic flavor of Maryland’s beloved seafood tradition with this simple and delicious recipe. Steaming blue crabs to perfection brings out their natural sweetness, making them a must-have for any crab lover.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Dungeness or Blue Crabs (1 1/2 to 2 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crabs by about an inch.
2. Add the Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, vinegar, and water to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Place the crabs in a steaming basket or a piece of cheesecloth suspended above the liquid.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until the crabs turn bright red and the shells crack easily when pressed.
6. Remove the crabs from the heat and let them cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful mushrooms packed with succulent blue crab and savory spices. Perfect for a special occasion or as a impressive addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together blue crab meat, softened butter, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the blue crab mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Blue Crab Curry
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this succulent blue crab curry recipe, infused with aromatic spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup fish sauce-free chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add crab meat; stir to combine with the spice mixture.
4. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the crab is fully coated and heated through.
6. Stir in cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Avocado Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of fresh avocado with the brininess of blue crab, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat works well)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, blue crab meat, and red onion.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the salad.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad, making sure all ingredients are coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Louisiana Blue Crab Étouffée
A classic Creole dish from Louisiana, étouffée is a flavorful and spicy stew made with blue crab, vegetables, and roux. This recipe combines the rich flavors of the Gulf Coast with the perfect balance of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 2 cups fish stock (or chicken broth)
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add crab meat, rice, fish stock, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Crab and Shrimp Gumbo
This rich and flavorful gumbo recipe combines the sweetness of blue crab with the succulence of shrimp, all simmered together in a spicy roux-based broth. Serve over rice for a truly authentic Louisiana experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb blue crab claws, cracked
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish stock
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in flour to make roux; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crab, shrimp, thyme, cayenne pepper, diced tomatoes, and fish stock.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and filé powder (if using).
7. Serve over rice.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Blue Crab Dip with Old Bay Seasoning
Get ready to indulge in the flavor of the Chesapeake Bay with this creamy and tangy blue crab dip, infused with the unmistakable taste of Old Bay seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of softened cream cheese
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of freshly chopped blue crab meat
– 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning
– 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add the chopped blue crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is lightly browned and warm.
7. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Sweet Corn Fritters
A delightful twist on traditional fritters, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of fresh corn with the savory flavor of blue crab. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat, flaked
– 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
4. Add the blue crab meat and sweet corn kernels to the wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients; mix until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, 3-4 fritters at a time.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain on paper towels; serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Blue Crab Sushi Rolls
Add a touch of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay to your sushi game with these Spicy Blue Crab Sushi Rolls, featuring sweet and tender blue crab meat infused with spicy flavor. This unique twist on traditional maki rolls is sure to delight adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 pound blue crab meat
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Optional: avocado, cucumber, or other fillings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix vinegar, sugar, salt, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
3. Combine cooked rice and mixture; let cool.
4. In a separate bowl, mix blue crab meat with Sriracha sauce.
5. Lay nori sheet flat on a surface; spread 1/2 cup of cooled rice mixture onto seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
6. Place 1/4 cup of blue crab mixture in the center of the rice.
7. Roll sushi using bamboo mat or your hands; slice into individual pieces.
8. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi for added flavor.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Asparagus Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the sweet flavors of blue crab with the tender crunch of fresh asparagus, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound blue crab meat, flaked
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in blue crab meat and asparagus.
5. Cook until asparagus is tender, about 3-4 minutes more.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Blue Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the perfect fusion of coastal flavors with these delectable Blue Crab Tacos, paired with a sweet and tangy Mango Salsa. This recipe is sure to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound blue crab meat
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, lime juice, olive oil, onion, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the crab mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with Mango Salsa and desired toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Andouille Sausage Jambalaya
Blue Crab and Andouille Sausage Jambalaya Recipe
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Louisiana with the sweetness of blue crab, smoky andouille sausage, and spicy jambalaya rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup blue crab meat (jumbo lump)
– 1 cup jambalaya rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in blue crab meat, rice, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Fluff with fork and stir in cooked sausage. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Blue Crab Benedict with Hollandaise
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent twist on the classic Eggs Benedict. Fresh blue crab adds a sweet and indulgent touch to this rich and creamy dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 English muffins
– 1/2 pound fresh blue crab meat, flaked
– 4 poached eggs
– 1 cup Hollandaise sauce (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Toast English muffins and top with blue crab meat.
3. Poach eggs and place on top of crab.
4. Drizzle Hollandaise sauce over the eggs.
5. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A flavorful twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines succulent blue crab with the earthy taste of spinach for a delightful seafood-inspired treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine blue crab meat, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the crab-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the shells.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Crab Fried Rice with Sriracha
This recipe combines the sweetness of blue crab with the heat of sriracha, creating a bold and flavorful fried rice dish perfect for adventurous eaters. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup blue crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, blue crab meat, and sriracha sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blue Crab and Tomato Bisque
This creamy soup combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the rich flavor of blue crab, perfect for a cozy evening meal. A hint of spice from paprika adds depth to this delightful bisque.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup blue crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, blue crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
4. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with these 20 spicy blue crab recipes! From classic Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Boil to innovative dishes like Spicy Blue Crab Sushi Rolls and Blue Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa, this collection has something for every palate. Discover how to elevate your meals with Garlic Butter Blue Crab Pasta, Blue Crab and Avocado Salad, or Blue Crab Fried Rice with Sriracha. These mouth-watering recipes showcase the versatility of blue crab in a variety of cuisines, from Maryland-style steaming to Thai-inspired curries.