Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

These Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the savory essence of crab with the gooey goodness of mozzarella. Perfect for parties, date nights, or as a tasty snack, these sticks are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. With a crispy exterior and a rich, creamy filling, they deliver an exceptional taste experience that will have guests clamoring for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of crab and mozzarella creates a unique taste that’s both rich and satisfying.
• Crispy Texture: Double breading ensures a perfect golden crunch on the outside while keeping the inside creamy.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as appetizers at gatherings, main courses for family dinners, or snacks during game day.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices to suit your flavor preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks, gather your tools. Having everything in place will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Ensures even cooking and gives you control over the temperature for crispy results.
• Baking sheet: Useful for cooling the sticks after frying, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• Canola oil (for frying)
• 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)

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic (paste or minced)
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tsp black pepper

For Breading

• 3 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp water

For 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 seasoning
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

How to Make Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with lump crab meat and claw crab meat. Add in shredded mozzarella, cubed mozzarella, minced shallot, minced red bell pepper, parsley, chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Form the Sticks

Use your hands to shape the mixture into sticks about 3 inches long. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you work.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station

In one bowl, beat together eggs and water. In another bowl, spread out panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt.

Step 4: Bread the Sticks

Take each stick and dip it first into the egg mixture to coat it thoroughly. Then roll it in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. Repeat this process for all sticks.

Step 5: Frying

Heat canola oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (about 350°F), carefully add the breaded sticks in batches. Fry until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Transfer cooked sticks to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Make Remoulade Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayo, parsley, chives, Dijon mustard, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir until smooth.

Enjoy your Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks hot with your tangy remoulade on the side!

How to Serve Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Whether for a casual snack or an elegant appetizer, these sticks will impress your guests.

Pair with Tangy Remoulade

• This creamy and tangy sauce enhances the delicate flavors of the crab and complements the richness of the cheese.

Serve with Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up each bite and balances the richness of the mozzarella and crab.

Accompany with Crispy Salad

• A light, crispy salad made with mixed greens, cucumber, and a citrus vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to your meal.

Present with Sliced Avocado

• The creamy texture of ripe avocado pairs beautifully with the crispy crab mozzarella sticks for a delicious contrast.

Offer with Spicy Dipping Sauce

• For those who enjoy a kick, serve with a spicy sriracha mayo or similar sauce for an exciting flavor combination.

How to Perfect Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

Achieving the perfect Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they are crispy and delicious every time.

• Use cold ingredients – Keeping your crab mixture chilled helps maintain structure during cooking.
• Double breading technique – A double layer of panko breadcrumbs ensures an extra crispy coating that stays crunchy longer.
• Preheat oil properly – Ensuring your frying oil is hot enough is key; too cool will make them greasy.
• Do not overcrowd the pan – Frying in small batches allows even cooking and keeps the temperature consistent.
• Let them drain – After frying, place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil for a less greasy final product.

Best Side Dishes for Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

To complement your Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks, consider serving them alongside these tasty side dishes. They will enhance your meal while providing variety.

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries – Their slight sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory crab sticks.
2. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce while providing a comforting addition to your plate.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the mozzarella sticks.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted veggies add nutrients and flavor diversity to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad – Packed with protein and fiber, this salad provides a healthy complement to fried items.
6. Tomato Basil Bruschetta – Light and refreshing, this dish enhances the seafood theme while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks, it’s crucial to steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese or crab meat can lead to a mixture that doesn’t combine well. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

• Not double breading: Skipping the double breading process can result in soggy sticks. Ensure each stick is fully coated in egg and panko breadcrumbs for that desirable crunch.

• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many sticks at once can lower the oil temperature, causing uneven cooking. Fry in small batches to maintain a consistent heat.

• Ignoring seasoning: Forgetting to season your crab mixture might leave your sticks bland. Taste the filling before breading and adjust seasoning as needed for maximum flavor.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing the assembled sticks to chill before frying can make them fall apart. Chill for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheat gently to maintain texture.

Freezing Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

• Place uncooked sticks on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with date for easy organization.

Reheating Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but be aware they may not stay crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy on all sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks:

What kind of crab meat should I use?

You can use both lump and claw crab meat for a blend of textures and flavors. Fresh is best, but canned works too!

Can I make Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time and freeze before frying. Just cook from frozen when ready.

How do I know if they’re cooked through?

They should be golden brown on the outside, and you can check by cutting one open; it should be hot throughout and melty inside.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! For a healthier version, bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.

What dipping sauces pair well with these sticks?

A tangy remoulade or a simple garlic aioli complements the flavors beautifully!

Final Thoughts

Jumbo Lump Crab Mozzarella Sticks are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these tasty treats are sure to impress. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices!