Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits

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I have a soft spot for biscuits, especially when they come fresh out of the oven, golden and fragrant. But when you add crab meat, sharp cheddar, and a buttery garlic finish? That takes things to a whole new level of indulgence. These Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits are the kind of comfort food I dream about—fluffy, cheesy, a little crisp on the outside, and filled with a creamy, savory crab surprise inside.

I love making these for brunches or as a show-stopping appetizer. They have that “wow” factor when you break them open and the cheese pulls away with the warm crab filling. What makes this recipe even better is how approachable it is. No fancy ingredients, just simple steps that result in something that tastes like it came from a coastal restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits Recipe

These biscuits combine all the best parts of a cheesy biscuit and a crab dip into one handheld bite. They’re rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. The edges are slightly crisp while the inside stays moist and tender. Whether you serve them hot from the oven or pack them for a picnic, they always impress. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and reheat like a dream.

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What Kind of Crab Meat Should I Use?

Lump crab meat is the ideal choice here. It has a sweet flavor and tender texture that pairs perfectly with cheddar and herbs. You can use canned, fresh, or refrigerated crab, just make sure to pick through it for any bits of shell. I wouldn’t recommend imitation crab for this—it lacks the depth and delicate texture real crab offers.

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Options for Substitutions

If crab isn’t your thing or it’s out of season, you can try substituting it with cooked shredded chicken or even canned tuna for a more budget-friendly version. For a vegetarian twist, sautéed mushrooms or spinach mixed with cream cheese can make a hearty filling. You can also swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some heat, or even mozzarella for that stretch factor.

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Ingredients for This Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits Recipe

All-Purpose Flour – The base of the biscuit dough, providing structure and a tender crumb.

Baking Powder – Essential for getting that lift and fluffy texture in the biscuits.

Salt – Just the right amount to enhance all the savory flavors.

Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle depth and complements both the crab and cheddar.

Cold Unsalted Butter – Gives the biscuits a flaky, rich texture. Cold is key!

Buttermilk – Helps create a tender biscuit and adds a slight tanginess.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the biscuit dough, adding rich, cheesy flavor throughout.

Cooked Lump Crab Meat – The star of the filling. Sweet, tender, and flavorful.

Cream Cheese – Makes the crab filling creamy and indulgent.

Fresh Parsley – Brightens the flavor and adds color both inside and as garnish.

Cayenne Pepper (optional) – A touch of heat if you want a little kick.

Egg (optional) – For brushing the tops to give a golden finish.

Butter + Garlic (for topping) – Melted together and brushed on top for that irresistible finishing touch.

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Step 1: Prepare the Crab Filling

In a bowl, combine lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, a pinch of salt, and a bit of cayenne pepper if using. Mix gently so the crab stays in nice chunks. Set this aside while you make the biscuit dough.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. This ensures the leavening is evenly distributed for consistent rise.

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Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add cold butter cubes to the dry mix and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. The little bits of butter are what make the biscuits flaky.

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Step 4: Add the Buttermilk and Cheese

Pour in the buttermilk and fold in shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until a rough dough forms—don’t overwork it or the biscuits will be tough.

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Step 5: Assemble the Biscuits

Scoop out a portion of dough and flatten slightly in your hand. Add a spoonful of the crab mixture to the center and fold the dough around it, sealing the edges. Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

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Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Brush the tops with beaten egg if using, and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.

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Step 7: Finish with Garlic Butter

Melt butter with minced garlic and brush it over the hot biscuits right out of the oven. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a final touch of color and flavor.

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How Long to Prepare the Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits

Preparation Time: Preparing the dough and crab filling takes about 20 minutes. Mixing the dry and wet ingredients, forming the dough, and assembling the stuffed biscuits requires a bit of care, especially to keep the filling sealed properly.

Baking Time: These biscuits need about 15–18 minutes in a 425°F (220°C) oven. They should be golden brown on top and fully cooked through, with the cheese bubbling slightly at the seams. Including cooling and brushing with garlic butter, total time rounds up to around 35–40 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits

• Always use cold butter and cold buttermilk—this helps create steam pockets that make the biscuits fluffy.
• Don’t overmix the dough. Stir just until combined to keep the texture light and tender.
• Use a cookie scoop or measuring cup to portion the dough evenly.
• Gently press the edges of the biscuit dough together after stuffing to avoid any leakage.
• Let the biscuits rest for 5 minutes after baking before brushing with garlic butter so it soaks in without making the crust soggy.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overworking the dough: This can lead to dense biscuits.
• Using warm ingredients: Warm butter will melt into the dough too early, leading to flat biscuits.
• Overfilling with crab: Too much filling makes it hard to seal the dough and can cause leaks during baking.
• Skipping the garlic butter topping: It’s what takes these from good to unforgettable!
• Using low-moisture cheese: Stick to freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.

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What to Serve With Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits?

1. Fresh Garden Salad

The crispness and acidity of a light vinaigrette salad cuts through the richness of the biscuits.

2. Tomato Basil Soup

Dunking these cheesy biscuits in a warm, comforting tomato soup is a match made in heaven.

3. Lemon-Dill Roasted Asparagus

Bright and herbaceous, this side adds freshness and balances out the savory biscuit.

4. Coleslaw with Apple

A sweet-and-tangy slaw offers a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

5. Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water

A crisp drink helps cleanse the palate and pairs wonderfully with the seafood element.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a day, keep the biscuits in an airtight container at room temp.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore the texture.

Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition (per biscuit)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 470mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of crab meat is best for these biscuits?

Lump crab meat works best because it’s flavorful, tender, and holds up well inside the filling.

Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them, freeze on a baking tray, and store them frozen. Just bake from frozen when needed.

How do I keep the biscuits from falling apart?

Make sure to seal the dough well around the crab filling and avoid overfilling. This helps keep everything intact while baking.

Can I make this recipe without dairy?

You can try using plant-based butter, vegan cream cheese, and dairy-free cheddar alternatives, though the texture may vary slightly.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Wrap the biscuits in foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to keep them moist and warm throughout.

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Conclusion

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Biscuits are everything you want in a savory baked treat—cheesy, buttery, and filled with a creamy, crab-packed center. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy weekend brunch, an elegant appetizer, or a fun dinner side, they hit all the right notes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe brings gourmet flavor to your kitchen without the fuss.

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