Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter Sauce are a decadent twist on the classic biscuit recipe. These biscuits are stuffed with a rich crab filling and topped with a zesty lemon butter sauce, making them the perfect appetizer or side dish for any seafood lover. The combination of buttery biscuits, savory crab filling, and bright lemon sauce makes these biscuits a showstopper at any gathering.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Crab Filling
- 8 oz lump crab meat, drained
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crab Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, chopped parsley, and lemon zest.
- Mix until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Biscuit Dough
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Assemble the Biscuits
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of biscuit dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place 1 tablespoon of the crab filling in the center and fold the dough around it, sealing the edges to encase the filling.
- Place the stuffed biscuit on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 4: Bake the Biscuits
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- While the biscuits are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the lemon juice, garlic powder, and chopped parsley. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve
- Brush the warm biscuits with the lemon butter sauce as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Crab Meat: Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor, but canned or imitation crab meat can be used in a pinch.
- Cold Butter: Make sure the butter is cold when adding it to the flour mixture. This helps create flaky, tender biscuits.
- Sealing the Biscuits: Be sure to seal the edges of the biscuits well to keep the crab filling from spilling out during baking.
Variations
- Spicy Crab Stuffed Biscuits: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the crab filling for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Herb Biscuits: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives or dill to the biscuit dough for extra flavor.
- Creamy Lemon Sauce: Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream to the lemon butter sauce for a richer, creamier finish.
- Bacon-Wrapped Biscuits: Wrap each stuffed biscuit in a slice of bacon before baking for an extra savory twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Canned Crab Meat?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat if fresh lump crab is not available. Just be sure to drain it well and remove any excess liquid.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Biscuits?
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze These Biscuits?
Yes, you can freeze the baked biscuits. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
4. Can I Make the Crab Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab filling up to 1 day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
- Seafood Feast: Serve these biscuits as a side dish with seafood dishes like shrimp scampi or grilled salmon.
- Appetizer Platter: Include these stuffed biscuits on an appetizer platter with fresh veggies, cheese, and crackers.
- Salad Pairing: Pair with a light green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Brunch: These biscuits make a great addition to a brunch spread with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter Sauce are a delicious and decadent twist on a classic biscuit recipe. With a flavorful crab filling and a zesty lemon butter sauce, these biscuits are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for something savory and indulgent. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a seafood feast, these stuffed biscuits are always a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in every bite!
