These cheesy crab garlic biscuits are fluffy, buttery, and filled with a rich seafood mixture that makes every bite savory and satisfying. With tender biscuit dough on the outside and creamy crab filling inside, they deliver a delicious blend of garlic, cheese, and seafood flavor. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a unique addition to dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These biscuits combine the comfort of warm, buttery biscuits with the rich flavor of crab and creamy cheese. They are easy to prepare, require simple ingredients, and bake quickly, making them great for both weeknight treats and special occasions.
The garlic butter topping adds a bold flavor that perfectly complements the creamy crab filling. Each biscuit has a soft, fluffy texture with a savory center that feels indulgent but approachable.
They also make a great party food. Serve them warm and they quickly become the highlight of any gathering.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (11.36 oz)
1/2 block cream cheese, softened (4 oz)
8 oz lump crabmeat, drained and checked for shells
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup cold water (or as directed on biscuit mix package)
1 packet garlic herb seasoning from the biscuit mix
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
Gently fold in the lump crabmeat and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir carefully so the crab stays in chunks. Set the filling aside.
In another bowl, prepare the biscuit dough by combining the biscuit mix with cold water according to the package instructions. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center. Cover with another small piece of dough and seal the edges to form a filled biscuit.
Place the filled biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
While the biscuits bake, combine the melted butter with the garlic herb seasoning packet and chopped parsley.
Remove the biscuits from the oven and brush the tops generously with the garlic butter mixture.
Serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 biscuits
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
Spicy Crab Biscuits
Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the crab mixture for a spicy kick.
Extra Cheesy Version
Mix an additional 1/4 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese into the crab filling for an even richer texture.
Herb Butter Upgrade
Add chopped fresh chives or dill to the garlic butter topping for a fresh herbal flavor.
Mini Party Bites
Make smaller biscuits and use less filling to create bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties.
Shrimp and Crab Mix
Replace half of the crabmeat with finely chopped cooked shrimp for a mixed seafood filling.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Wrap the cooled biscuits individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating in Oven
Warm biscuits in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through.
Reheating in Microwave
Heat one biscuit at a time for about 20 to 30 seconds. The oven method is recommended for better texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab instead of canned?
Yes, fresh cooked crab works wonderfully in this recipe and often provides even better flavor and texture.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes. The crab filling can be prepared up to one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What type of crabmeat works best?
Lump crabmeat is ideal because it has large, tender pieces and a sweet flavor.
Can I make these biscuits without the boxed mix?
Yes. You can use homemade biscuit dough if you prefer, but the mix makes the process faster.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Make sure the dough fully seals around the filling and pinch the edges tightly.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes. Finely chopped green onions or bell peppers can add extra flavor and texture.
Are these biscuits good for parties?
Yes. They are easy to serve and make excellent appetizers or snack bites for gatherings.
Can I freeze them before baking?
Yes. Assemble the biscuits, freeze them on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What sauce pairs well with these biscuits?
They pair nicely with garlic butter, lemon aioli, or a light seafood dipping sauce.
Can I use imitation crab?
Yes, imitation crab can be used as a budget-friendly substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Conclusion
Cheesy crab garlic biscuits bring together fluffy biscuit dough, creamy seafood filling, and buttery garlic flavor in one irresistible bite. They are simple to prepare yet impressive enough for entertaining. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a meal, these savory biscuits are guaranteed to become a favorite whenever seafood cravings strike.
