We’ve always been captivated by the iconic Crab Bomb from Jerry’s Seafood, a Maryland favorite that’s packed with juicy crab meat and bold flavors. This dish hails from the East Coast where fresh seafood traditions thrive making it a must-try for any lover of coastal eats.
As fellow foodies we’re eager to share our spin on this classic ensuring you whip up a version that’s simple yet bursting with that authentic seaside charm.
Ingredients
To bring our simplified version of Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb Recipe to life, we gather these key ingredients, ordered as they’ll be used in preparation. This ensures a seamless process for capturing the dish’s authentic East Coast flavors.
Main Components
- Crab meat: 1 pound of fresh lump crab meat, picked over for shells to maintain its tender texture and rich seafood essence.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs, preferably panko for a crispier finish when baking.
Binders and Flavor Enhancers
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup of full-fat mayonnaise to bind the mixture and add creamy moisture.
- Old Bay seasoning: 2 tablespoons of this iconic Maryland blend, essential for that bold, spicy kick that defines coastal crab dishes.
- Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon for a tangy depth that complements the crab’s sweetness.
- Egg: 1 large egg, beaten to help hold the crab bomb together during cooking.
Vegetables and Aromatics
- Onion: ½ cup of finely chopped yellow onion for a subtle sweetness and crunch.
- Bell pepper: ½ cup of diced green bell pepper, adding vibrant color and fresh contrast to the rich crab filling.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, to infuse aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh parsley: ¼ cup of chopped leaves for a bright, herbaceous finish.
Additional Seasonings
- Salt and pepper: ½ teaspoon of each, to taste, ensuring balanced seasoning without overpowering the star ingredient—crab meat.
- Lemon: Juice from 1 lemon, freshly squeezed, to brighten the mixture and enhance the seafood’s natural taste.
These ingredients form the foundation of our Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb Recipe, allowing us to replicate its cherished Maryland heritage with confidence and ease.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb recipe to life with ease, we rely on a selection of essential tools that streamline preparation and ensure professional results. These items help us handle fresh lump crab meat and other key ingredients precisely, maintaining the dish’s authentic Maryland flavors.
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have tools, organized by their role in the recipe process:
- Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl for gently combining crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings without breaking up the lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate sets to measure ingredients like mayonnaise and Old Bay seasoning, guaranteeing the perfect balance of flavors.
- Cutting board and chef’s knife: For finely chopping vegetables and aromatics, such as onions and herbs, to enhance the vibrant, coastal taste.
- Spatula or mixing spoon: A flexible tool for folding ingredients together, ensuring even distribution while preserving the crab’s delicate texture.
- Baking sheet or oven-safe dish: Ideal for broiling or baking the crab bombs to achieve a golden, crispy exterior with succulent insides.
- Oven or broiler: A preheated appliance to cook the dish quickly, locking in the rich seafood essence that defines this East Coast favorite.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly into the preparation steps, making your at-home version of Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb both effortless and authentic.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb with simple, step-by-step directions that build on our selected ingredients and tools for an authentic Maryland flavor. Let’s dive into the process to achieve that irresistible, succulent crab taste right in your kitchen.
Prep
First, we gather and prepare our fresh ingredients to ensure everything is ready for assembly. Start by finely chopping 1 medium onion, 2 celery stalks, and 1 bell pepper on a clean cutting board using your chef’s knife—these aromatics release a vibrant, crisp aroma that forms the base of the dish’s bold flavors. Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of fresh lump crab meat with 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ensuring to gently pick through the crab for any shells to maintain its tender, flaky texture.
Measure out and mix the wet ingredients: whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Old Bay seasoning, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 beaten egg in a separate small bowl until smooth—this creates a creamy binder that enhances the crab’s natural sweetness. Finally, squeeze the juice from 1 lemon into the mixture for a zesty tang that brightens the overall profile, then set aside all prepped components for seamless assembly.
Assemble
We bring our prepped elements together to form the hearty Crab Bomb mixture. In the large mixing bowl, gently fold the crab meat and breadcrumbs into the wet ingredient mixture using a spatula, taking care not to overmix and preserve the crab’s delicate, juicy chunks—this step ensures each bite delivers a perfect balance of crisp breadcrumbs and rich seafood essence.
Once combined, shape the mixture into 6-8 uniform balls or patties on your baking sheet, pressing lightly to hold their form without compacting them too much. For added flair, sprinkle a pinch more Old Bay seasoning on top of each for an extra layer of that iconic Maryland spice, creating a visually appealing and aromatic preparation ready for cooking.
Cook
Finally, we cook the assembled Crab Bombs to achieve a golden, crispy exterior with a moist, flavorful interior. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the baking sheet on the middle rack—bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tops turn a deep golden brown and the aroma of spiced crab fills your kitchen, signaling they’re perfectly done.
For a crispier finish, you can broil on high for the last 2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning—this step locks in the dish’s savory, seaside taste that evokes Maryland’s coastal traditions. Once cooked, let them rest for 5 minutes to set, allowing the flavors to meld into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We often prepare key components in advance to preserve the dish’s fresh, succulent crab flavors and ensure a seamless cooking experience when you’re ready to serve.
Preparing the Mixture Ahead
To get a head start, we recommend assembling the crab mixture up to 24 hours before baking. Begin by following the initial prep steps from our earlier instructions—finely chopping the onion, celery, and bell pepper, then combining them with the fresh lump crab meat and breadcrumbs in a large mixing bowl. This step locks in the vibrant, coastal essence of Maryland’s seafood traditions.
Next, whisk together the wet ingredients—mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice—until they form a creamy binder. Gently fold this into the crab mixture to avoid breaking up the delicate lumps of crab. Once mixed, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Forming and Storing the Crab Bombs
For even more convenience, we can shape the crab bombs ahead of time. Use a spoon or your hands to form the mixture into uniform balls or patties, as described in the assembly steps. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch, then sprinkle with a light dusting of Old Bay seasoning for that extra authentic flavor boost.
Store the formed crab bombs in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If preparing further in advance, freeze them on the baking sheet first until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, maintaining their moist, flavorful texture.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered to prevent drying; flavors intensify overnight. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Thaw in the fridge for 24 hours before baking for best results. |
Reheating and Finishing Tips
When it’s time to cook, we simply follow the original baking instructions—preheat your oven to 375°F and bake until golden brown. If you’ve frozen the crab bombs, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated through. This method delivers the same crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior that makes our Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb a crowd-pleaser. Always let them rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the rich, savory flavors to meld perfectly.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this take on Jerry’s Seafood Crab Bomb, a recipe that brings Maryland’s coastal charm right to your kitchen. It’s a simple way to savor authentic flavors without the fuss.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal, this dish lets us recreate those cherished seafood traditions with ease. Give it a try and make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your home too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crab Bomb from Jerry’s Seafood?
Crab Bomb is a popular Maryland seafood dish from Jerry’s Seafood, featuring rich lump crab meat mixed with flavors like Old Bay seasoning. It’s a beloved East Coast favorite, celebrated for its authentic coastal taste and simple preparation, allowing home cooks to enjoy this classic anytime.
What ingredients are needed for Crab Bomb?
Key ingredients include fresh lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, and fresh vegetables like onions or peppers. These are selected to capture the dish’s authentic Maryland flavors, ensuring a simple yet delicious result with minimal prep.
What tools are required to make Crab Bomb?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a cutting board and chef’s knife, a spatula or mixing spoon, and a baking sheet or oven-safe dish. These essentials help maintain the dish’s traditional flavors and make preparation straightforward for professional-looking results.
How do I prepare Crab Bomb step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients and mixing wet components like mayonnaise and mustard in a bowl. Fold in crab meat and other ingredients to form balls or patties, season with Old Bay, and bake at 375°F until golden brown. Broil briefly for crispiness, then let rest before serving.
Can I make Crab Bomb ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the crab mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge. Form into balls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months. This flexibility suits busy schedules, ensuring the dish retains its crispy exterior and tender interior when baked.
How do I store and reheat Crab Bomb?
Store uncooked Crab Bombs in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen or thawed until heated through, aiming for a crispy finish. Let them rest briefly to preserve flavors and texture for the best results.
Why is Crab Bomb significant in Maryland?
Crab Bomb embodies Maryland’s seafood heritage, originating from East Coast traditions like those at Jerry’s Seafood. It’s a symbol of vibrant coastal cuisine, using fresh ingredients to deliver authentic flavors that evoke the region’s culinary history and make it a cherished dish for home cooks.