Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits

These Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a perfect balance of buttery, cheesy, and seafood flavors. The fluffy biscuit base holds the rich crab stuffing, while the sharpness of cheddar enhances the savory profile.

They make for an excellent appetizer or side dish, whether for a casual meal or a festive gathering. Serve these warm out of the oven, and they’ll surely be a hit at any occasion! The combination of fresh crab, cheese, and herbs creates a savory, melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1 cup cooked crab meat, flaked

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir to combine.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, and egg until smooth.

5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the crab meat, fresh parsley, paprika, and lemon zest.

7. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.

9. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious crab-stuffed cheddar bay biscuits!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes | Total Time: 25-28 minutes

Kcal: 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 biscuits

Recipe Overview

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a luxurious and savory twist on the classic Cheddar Bay Biscuit, a long-time favorite of seafood lovers. These golden-brown, buttery biscuits are enhanced with the richness of fresh crab meat and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a decadent bite that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are perfect for a casual dinner or an elegant gathering. The combination of seafood and cheese in a biscuit form is a unique and delicious treat that makes any meal feel like a special occasion.

History and Origin

Cheddar Bay Biscuits became a household name thanks to the famous restaurant chain, Red Lobster, which introduced them to their menu in the early 1990s. Their popularity exploded due to their irresistible combination of cheddar cheese, butter, and garlic, which made them a signature item at the restaurant. While the Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a relatively modern creation, the idea of pairing biscuits with seafood has deep roots, especially in coastal regions where seafood has been a dietary staple for centuries.

The addition of crab to these cheddar-packed biscuits brings an element of the coastal and regional flavors found along the U.S. East Coast, particularly in places like Chesapeake Bay and the Gulf Coast. Crab is a key ingredient in many beloved dishes of these regions, from crab cakes to crab boils, and it’s no surprise that this beloved shellfish would make its way into a biscuit. Combining crab meat with the cheesy, buttery base of the Cheddar Bay Biscuit creates a perfect fusion of two beloved culinary elements that have been enjoyed in seafood-rich cultures for generations.

Variations and Adaptations

Like any beloved dish, the Cheddar Bay Biscuit has inspired numerous variations across different regions and cultures. The addition of crab is just one adaptation of the classic, but there are many other ways to change up this dish to suit different tastes or dietary preferences.

For those who prefer a different type of seafood, the crab can be swapped out for shrimp, lobster, or even scallops. Each of these options will bring its own distinct flavor to the biscuits, while still maintaining the indulgent texture and flavor that makes this recipe a favorite. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even mix different seafood together for a more complex flavor profile.

Vegetarians or those who wish to avoid seafood can substitute the crab with sautéed mushrooms, a combination of vegetables, or even a cheesy spinach filling. This variation will still capture the cheesy, buttery essence of the original recipe while making it accessible for different dietary needs.

For a spicier twist, add a dash of Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the dough or filling. The heat will enhance the richness of the crab and cheddar and provide an exciting kick that pairs perfectly with the biscuit’s buttery texture.

Nutritional Information

While Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are undoubtedly indulgent, they do offer some nutritional benefits, especially from the crab meat. A typical serving of these biscuits (about one biscuit) contains approximately 250 calories. While the recipe is high in fat and sodium due to the use of butter and cheese, it also offers a moderate amount of protein from the crab meat.

Here is a breakdown of the key nutritional components per biscuit:

• Calories: 250 kcal

• Protein: 7g (primarily from the crab meat)

• Carbohydrates: 26g (from the all-purpose flour and other ingredients)

• Fat: 13g (largely from the butter and cheese)

• Fiber: 1g (if using whole wheat flour or adding vegetables)

• Sodium: 450mg (from the cheese and seasonings)

• Cholesterol: 25mg (from the egg and butter)

The crab meat is a fantastic source of lean protein and provides important micronutrients like zinc, selenium, and vitamin B12, which support immune health, cell function, and brain health. Additionally, crab is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health and reduce inflammation. However, because of the high sodium and fat content, it’s best to enjoy these biscuits in moderation as an occasional treat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways, depending on the occasion. For a truly indulgent experience, serve them as part of a seafood feast, alongside baked salmon, grilled shrimp, or a fresh seafood salad. The richness of the crab and cheese in the biscuits pairs beautifully with the lightness of a fresh salad, especially one with a tangy vinaigrette dressing to balance the flavors.

These biscuits also make an excellent appetizer when served with a dipping sauce. A spicy remoulade or garlic aioli would complement the buttery flavor of the biscuits and add an extra layer of flavor. For a more casual meal, serve them as a side dish with a hearty soup or chowder. A creamy clam chowder or lobster bisque would be an ideal pairing, bringing out the flavors of the crab stuffing while keeping the meal satisfying and comforting.

If you’re hosting a brunch, these biscuits would pair perfectly with eggs benedict, a fresh fruit salad, and mimosas. Their rich, savory flavor would also make a great addition to a charcuterie board, offering a contrast to the lighter elements like cheeses, cured meats, and olives.

For drinks, pair these biscuits with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé to enhance the seafood flavors. A refreshing citrusy IPA also works well with the richness of the biscuits, while a classic cocktail like a gin and tonic will cut through the heaviness of the cheese and butter.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure that your Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits come out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips:

• Don’t overwork the dough: Overmixing can lead to dense, tough biscuits. Mix the dough just enough to combine the ingredients, and avoid kneading it too much.

• Use cold butter: For the best texture, make sure the butter is cold when added to the dough. This will help create the signature flaky texture in the biscuits.

• Season the crab: Crab meat can be sweet and delicate, so make sure to season it well to bring out its flavor. A dash of Old Bay seasoning, a squeeze of lemon, or some fresh herbs like parsley will enhance the overall taste.

• Don’t skip the fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a light, fresh flavor to the biscuits. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference in the overall presentation and flavor.

• Serve them fresh: These biscuits are best enjoyed right out of the oven, while they are still warm and flaky. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven to preserve their texture.

Potential Health Benefits

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits, despite being indulgent, offer some health benefits thanks to the crab meat. Crab is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids that contribute to muscle repair and overall body function. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health and brain function.

Additionally, crab meat is a great source of minerals like zinc and selenium. Zinc plays a vital role in immune function and wound healing, while selenium is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from oxidative stress and supports thyroid function.

While the butter and cheese add richness and flavor to the recipe, they also contribute to the fat content, so it’s important to enjoy these biscuits in moderation. For a lighter version, consider reducing the butter or using a lower-fat cheese, and swap in a lighter seafood filling like shrimp or scallops.

Conclusion

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a perfect combination of rich flavors, tender textures, and coastal charm. The buttery, cheesy biscuits combined with the sweet, delicate crab filling make for a satisfying and indulgent treat that is sure to impress. Whether you serve them at a formal gathering or a casual dinner, these biscuits are a crowd-pleasing favorite that brings together the best of seafood and comfort food. So, if you’re craving a decadent dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor, give these crab-stuffed delights a try. Your taste buds will thank you!