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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
Chill Time2 hours
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer, crab, crab cakes, mozzarella sticks
Servings: 12
Author: kingcooks

Ingredients

  • Canola oil for frying

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

Egg Wash

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp water

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

Instructions

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.

Remoulade Sauce

  • Mix together all ingredients listed under “Remoulade Sauce” and set aside.

Seasoned Breadcrumbs

  • Mix together all ingredients listed under “Seasoned Breadcrumbs” and set aside.

Egg Wash

  • Whisk together all ingredients listed under “Egg Wash” and set aside.

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!

Notes

*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.*