Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks
If crab cakes and mozzarella sticks had a baby, this would be it. These Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks are stuffed with a rich, creamy blend of crab, herbs, and melty mozzarella, then double breaded for the ultimate golden crunch. Every bite gives you the delicate sweetness of fresh crab with a gooey cheese pull that hits all the right notes. Served hot and crispy with a tangy remoulade on the side, they’re perfect for parties, date nights, or whenever you're in the mood to impress. Make a batch, fry them up, and watch them disappear.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Chill Time2 hours hrs
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer, crab, crab cakes, mozzarella sticks
Servings: 12
Author: kingcooks
Jumbo Lump Crab Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 8 oz lump crab meat
- 4 oz claw crab meat
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella shredded
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cubed
- 1/4 cup shallot minced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper minced
- 1 tbsp parsley freshly chopped
- 1 tbsp chives minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic paste or minced
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tsp black pepper
Seasoned Breadcrumbs
- 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Remoulade Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1 tsp parsley freshly chopped
- 1 tsp chives freshly chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
Jumbo Lump Crab Filling
In a bowl, add all the ingredients listed under “Jumbo Lump Crab Filling” EXCEPT the lump crab meat, and mix thoroughly.
Once combined, gently fold in the lump crab meat.
Transfer the mixture to a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
Press and spread it into an even layer.
Place in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Assemble
Heat a large pot of canola oil to 350F.
Once the crab filling is firm, cut into equal pieces. You should get 6 large pieces or 12 medium sized pieces.
Working in batches, dip each piece into the egg wash, then into the seasoned breadcrumbs, back into the egg wash, and finish with a final dredge in the breadcrumbs.
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto each piece to help them adhere.
Once coated, fry for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve immediately with a side of remoulade sauce and enjoy!
*Note: If preparing ahead, you can freeze the breaded pieces until ready to fry.*
*If frying from frozen, cook for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown.*