These Crab Rangoon Bombs are everything I love in a snack—crispy, creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious crab flavor. They’re the perfect fusion of indulgent comfort food and seafood goodness, making them an ideal appetizer for parties, game nights, or just when I want to treat myself to something savory and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and always a hit with friends and family. The creamy blend of cream cheese and mozzarella melts beautifully, while the crab (real or imitation) adds a savory, slightly sweet richness. These little bombs are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making each bite a flavor explosion. Plus, they can be prepped ahead and fried or baked when I’m ready.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 package (8 oz / 225 g) of cream cheese, softened
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 cans or fresh lump crab meat, well drained (about 6 oz per can)
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1 cup imitation crab, flaked by hand or with a fork
Directions
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I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) or heating oil if I’m frying.
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In a large bowl, I combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, lump crab meat, and imitation crab. I mix until fully combined.
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I scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into small balls.
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If baking, I place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If frying, I prepare a pot with enough oil to submerge them halfway.
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I bake for 15–18 minutes or fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side.
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Once done, I place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
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I let them cool slightly before serving—perfect with a sweet chili dipping sauce or just as they are.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 Crab Rangoon Bombs.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes (depending on method)
Total time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 6–8 as an appetizer
Variations
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Air fryer option: I like to air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for a healthier twist.
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Spicy version: I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha for some heat.
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Herbed twist: I mix in a tablespoon of chopped chives or green onions for extra flavor.
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Wonton wrapped: For a traditional approach, I sometimes wrap the mixture in wonton wrappers and fry or bake them.
Storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I prefer using the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
Microwaving works too, but it tends to make the exterior less crispy.
FAQs
How do I keep the filling from leaking while cooking?
I make sure the bombs are tightly packed and sealed, especially if using wrappers. Freezing them for 10 minutes before cooking helps hold their shape.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I often prep them the night before and store them in the fridge or freeze them. They cook perfectly from frozen—just add a couple extra minutes to the cook time.
What dipping sauces go well with Crab Rangoon Bombs?
I like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a mix of mayo and sriracha. Even honey mustard gives a nice contrast.
Can I use only imitation crab?
Absolutely. If I don’t have access to fresh or canned crab, using just imitation crab still results in a tasty snack.
What’s the best way to shred imitation crab?
I usually flake it by hand or with a fork. For finer texture, I pulse it a couple of times in a food processor.
Conclusion
These Crab Rangoon Bombs are one of my go-to appetizers because they’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and completely addictive. Whether I’m using fresh crab or imitation, baking or frying, they always turn out crispy, creamy, and delicious. Give them a try the next time I want something impressive without the fuss!
Print
Crab Rangoon Bombs
Crab Rangoon Bombs are crispy, creamy, cheese-filled bites loaded with crab flavor. Whether baked or fried, these appetizers deliver a gooey, savory experience perfect for parties, game nights, or indulgent snacks.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 bombs
Ingredients
1 package (8 oz / 225 g) cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cans (6 oz each) or fresh lump crab meat, well drained
1 cup imitation crab, flaked
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil for frying.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, lump crab meat, and imitation crab until well combined.
- Scoop 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into small balls.
- If baking, place balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If frying, prepare a pot with oil to submerge the bombs halfway.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with sweet chili sauce or enjoy plain.
Notes
- Freeze for 10 minutes before cooking to help bombs hold their shape.
- Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Mix in chopped green onions or chives for an herby touch.
- Can be wrapped in wonton wrappers for a traditional version.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking or Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Halal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bombs
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg