If you’re a fan of buttery, cheesy biscuits and crave seafood with rich, savory depth, these Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are the ultimate treat. Packed with tender crab meat, melty cheddar, and brushed with garlic lemon butter, this recipe takes the iconic Cheddar Bay biscuit and turns it into a gourmet, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or an indulgent weeknight side, this recipe is easy to make but tastes like something you’d order from a seafood restaurant. Whether you’re new to baking biscuits or looking for creative crab appetizer recipes, you’re going to fall in love with this dish.

A Decadent Fusion of Savory Biscuits and Crab Filling

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are already a fan favorite, known for their rich flavor and soft, crumbly texture. When you add a seasoned crab filling to the center and bake them to golden perfection, the result is pure magic. These crab cheddar bay biscuits offer a balance of flaky biscuit layers and creamy, seasoned seafood in every bite.

The outer biscuit is crisp on the edges and tender inside, while the crab filling is loaded with garlic, herbs, lemon zest, and a creamy binder. They’re incredibly versatile—you can serve them warm from the oven, reheat them later, or even freeze a batch for future snacking.

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Cheesy, Buttery, and Perfectly Stuffed With Crab

Why does this recipe work so well? It’s all about texture and flavor. The sharp cheddar cheese creates that signature Cheddar Bay richness, while the garlic butter glaze adds a fragrant finish. The crab filling, nestled inside each biscuit, delivers a creamy, savory surprise that makes each bite feel like a mini crab cake tucked into a biscuit shell.

They’re ideal for serving as elegant crab snacks, party starters, or hearty side dishes for seafood dinners. And because the recipe uses accessible ingredients, you don’t need to be a chef to get gourmet results.

Simple, Flavor-Packed Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Perfection

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these amazing crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits:

For the Biscuits:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus more if needed)

For the Crab Filling:

• 8 oz lump crab meat (drained and picked over)
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (optional)

Each element brings its own punch of flavor, coming together to create one of the most amazing recipes for seafood lovers.

Kitchen Essentials to Make These Crab Snacks Flawless

Here’s a list of tools to ensure your biscuits come out perfect:

• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk and fork
• Pastry cutter or food processor (for the biscuit dough)
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Ice cream scoop or tablespoon (for even biscuit portions)
• Pastry brush (for garlic butter topping)

You don’t need fancy equipment—just the right tools for flaky biscuits and smooth fillings.

Step-by-Step Instructions From Dough to Golden Crust

Step 1 – Prepare the Crab Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the crab meat, mayo, Old Bay, lemon zest, parsley, and garlic. Mix gently, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside in the fridge while making the dough.

Step 2 – Make the Biscuit Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.

Add buttermilk and stir just until the dough holds together. Do not overmix. If it’s too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of extra buttermilk.

Step 3 – Shape and Fill the Biscuits:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten into a small disc in your hand. Spoon a heaping teaspoon of crab filling into the center and fold the dough around it, pinching to seal. Form into a ball and place on the baking sheet.

Repeat with remaining dough and filling, spacing biscuits about 1 inch apart.

Step 4 – Bake the Biscuits:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake biscuits for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 5 – Brush With Garlic Lemon Butter:
As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, lemon juice, and parsley. Brush generously over each biscuit for that signature shine and flavor.

Let cool slightly before serving.

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How to Customize With Herbs, Spices, or Citrus

Once you’ve mastered the basic version, try these creative variations:

• Add chopped chives or dill to the crab filling
• Mix in a pinch of cayenne for heat
• Use smoked paprika in the dough for extra depth
• Replace parsley with cilantro for a fresh twist
• Swap lemon zest for orange or lime for different citrus tones

Each change brings a unique flavor to this versatile seafood dish recipe.

Secrets for Moist, Cheesy, and Fully Cooked Biscuits

To get the best texture and flavor, keep these tips in mind:

• Use very cold butter and don’t overmix the dough
• Don’t overfill the biscuits—1 teaspoon of filling is plenty
• Seal the edges well to prevent filling from leaking
• Bake until tops are golden but not dry
• Always brush with garlic butter immediately after baking

These tips guarantee a perfect balance between gooey filling and flaky biscuit.

When and How to Serve These Crab-Filled Treats

These biscuits shine in so many settings. Try serving them as:

• A show-stopping appetizer at parties
• A brunch dish with fresh fruit and salad
• A side for creamy seafood chowder or gumbo
• A snack for game day or holiday gatherings
• A fancy starter at dinner with lemon wedges on the side

Serve warm with extra garlic butter for dipping if you really want to impress.

How to Keep Leftovers Fresh and Delicious

These biscuits can be stored and reheated without losing flavor.

Storage Tips:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through
• Avoid microwaving, which can make the biscuit soggy
• Freeze unbaked, filled biscuits and bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the bake time

This makes them a great option for make-ahead entertaining or meal prepping.

What’s Inside Each Biscuit and Lighter Options

These biscuits are indulgent but can be lightened up with a few adjustments.

Estimated Nutrition (per biscuit):

Calories: ~240
Fat: ~13g
Carbs: ~22g
Protein: ~9g
Sugar: ~2g
Fiber: ~1g
Sodium: ~360mg

Lighter Alternatives:

• Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount
• Try Greek yogurt in place of mayo in the filling
• Use whole wheat flour for extra fiber
• Reduce butter and increase crab for a leaner version

These changes still give you flavor-packed crab biscuits, just with a healthier profile.

Perfect For Seafood Lovers, Party Hosts, and Snack Enthusiasts

This recipe is a hit with:

• Fans of seafood appetizers
• Cheddar Bay biscuit lovers looking to upgrade
• Home cooks who enjoy crab stuffed anything
• Party planners and game day snackers
• Anyone who loves amazing recipes that are simple but feel gourmet

They’re especially great for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Preventing Soggy Fillings and Undercooked Biscuits

A few common mistakes can ruin a good biscuit. Avoid these:

• Wet crab meat—drain thoroughly before mixing
• Using warm butter—keep it cold for flaky dough
• Overstuffing—too much filling can cause leakage
• Skipping the butter topping—it adds flavor and moisture
• Baking too hot—stick to 400°F for even baking

A little care makes a big difference in this type of stuffed biscuit recipe.

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Your Top Questions About Recipes With Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Can I use pre-made Cheddar Bay biscuit mix?
Yes! Follow the box directions, but reduce liquid slightly to account for the added filling.

Can I make these with imitation crab?
You can, though the flavor will differ. Use real lump crab for best results.

Can I freeze these?
Yes—freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen at 400°F, adding 5 minutes to baking time.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend and check that your baking powder is GF certified.

Are they good served cold?
They’re best warm, but can be served at room temperature at parties.

Why This Is One of the Most Amazing Recipes for Seafood Appetizers

These Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits combine everything you love about savory snacks and seafood starters into one irresistible bite. They’re comforting, cheesy, perfectly seasoned, and elegant enough for any occasion. With straightforward steps and flexible ingredients, this dish is one of those crab appetizer recipes you’ll turn to again and again.

Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side, or main attraction, they deliver serious flavor with minimal fuss.

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