Description
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, these Cajun Crab Croquettes are a flavor-packed seafood treat with a Southern twist. Made with sweet crab meat, bold Cajun spices, and a golden breadcrumb coating, these bite-sized croquettes are perfect as appetizers, party bites, or even a main course with a side salad or slaw. Dip them in your favorite sauce for a dish that’s both comforting and full of zesty flavor.
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Ingredients
For the Crab Filling:
8 oz lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained and picked over for shells)
2 tbsp butter
½ small onion, finely diced
1 stalk celery, finely diced
½ red bell pepper, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp chopped parsley
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
¾ cup milk
1 egg, lightly beaten
For Breading & Frying:
½ cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
Vegetable oil for frying
Optional Dipping Sauces:
Remoulade
Spicy mayo (mayo + hot sauce or sriracha)
Tartar sauce
Garlic aioli
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crab Mixture
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Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened.
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Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Add flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
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Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
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Remove from heat and stir in crab meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, and egg.
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Mix gently until combined.
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Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Shape & Bread the Croquettes
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Once chilled, shape the mixture into small balls or oval patties (about 2 tablespoons each).
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Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
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Dredge each croquette in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
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Place on a baking sheet and chill again for 15–30 minutes (optional but helps hold shape).
Step 3: Fry the Croquettes
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Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry croquettes in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
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Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.
Notes
Use Lump Crab – Offers the best texture and flavor. Avoid imitation for this recipe.
Don’t Overmix – Gently fold ingredients to keep the filling tender.
Chill Before Frying – Helps prevent croquettes from falling apart.
Double Bread – For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
Fry in Small Batches – Don’t overcrowd the pan or the oil temp will drop.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Southern Cajun