Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter: A Gourmet Touch to Comfort Food

Why Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter Are Irresistible

Imagine biting into a warm, buttery biscuit loaded with sharp cheddar cheese, only to discover a luscious, savory crab filling inside. Each mouthful finishes with a bright, zesty lemon butter glaze that perfectly cuts through the richness. This isn’t just any biscuit—it’s an elevated comfort food that combines the best of land and sea in one irresistible bite.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sophisticated snack, these crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits deliver on flavor and texture. They offer the flaky tenderness of classic cheddar biscuits with a decadent seafood surprise hidden inside, making them a show-stopping appetizer or side dish.

Best of all, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make at home. With a handful of fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create these crowd-pleasers without any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Ready to impress your guests with a delicious, savory treat? Let’s dive in!

What Are Cheddar Bay Biscuits?

Cheddar bay biscuits are soft, flaky biscuits packed with sharp cheddar cheese and seasoned with herbs like parsley and a hint of garlic. They owe their popularity to Red Lobster, where they have become a signature starter loved by millions for decades.

The beauty of these biscuits lies in their buttery layers and cheesy bite, which makes them the perfect vehicle for a variety of fillings. By stuffing them with crab meat, you’re taking this classic comfort food to the next level — introducing a tender, slightly sweet seafood filling that contrasts beautifully with the biscuit’s richness.

When baked, the biscuits develop a golden crust while remaining fluffy and tender inside. The combination of textures and flavors is what makes cheddar bay biscuits so addictive—and stuffing them with crab only amplifies their appeal.

Why Crab Makes These Biscuits Special

Crab meat brings a delicate sweetness and luxurious texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory cheddar and buttery biscuit dough. Its subtle ocean flavor adds complexity without overpowering the dish, making each bite both comforting and sophisticated.

Beyond flavor, crab is a nutritious choice, rich in lean protein and packed with omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health. It’s also naturally low in fat, so it complements the richness of the biscuits without making the dish feel too heavy.

The addition of lemon butter glaze adds a refreshing brightness that balances the savory elements. The citrusy zing cuts through the creamy filling and buttery biscuit, creating a well-rounded flavor experience.

Together, these components make crab stuffed cheddar bay biscuits an elegant yet approachable appetizer that’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients Breakdown – Quality Counts

Biscuit Base

At the heart of these biscuits is a tender dough made from all-purpose flour, baking powder for rise, and salt for seasoning. Sharp cheddar cheese lends that signature savory kick, melting into pockets of flavor throughout the biscuit. Using full-fat butter and buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar) creates a rich, moist crumb with flaky layers. Garlic powder and fresh or dried parsley add the classic “bay biscuit” aroma and depth.

Crab Stuffing

Opt for fresh or high-quality lump crab meat to ensure sweet, tender bites without too many shells or fillers. Cream cheese or mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps bind the crab mixture. Green onions bring a mild sharpness and crunch, while lemon zest lifts the flavor with a hint of citrus. Old Bay seasoning or your favorite seafood spice mix enhances the natural sweetness of the crab with subtle warmth and complexity.

Lemon Butter Glaze

The final touch is a luscious lemon butter glaze made from unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Garlic and parsley can be added for extra flavor and a lovely herbal note. This glaze is brushed onto the biscuits straight from the oven, creating a glossy, fragrant coating that melts into every crumb.

Pro Tips

• Substitute fresh crab with good quality canned crab meat if fresh isn’t available, but drain well to avoid sogginess.

• Use full-fat dairy products for richness and better texture.

• Balance seasoning carefully—too much lemon can overpower, so start light and adjust to taste.

• Fresh herbs always trump dried when possible for the best flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls for preparing biscuit dough and crab filling

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup

• Spoon or cookie scoop to portion biscuit dough and crab filling evenly

• Pastry brush for applying lemon butter glaze

• Oven and cooling rack for baking and resting biscuits

Step-by-Step: How to Make Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Start by mixing your biscuit dough until just combined—overworking can toughen the biscuits. Prepare your crab filling by gently folding together crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, lemon zest, and Old Bay seasoning. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion a dollop of biscuit dough, flatten it, and add a spoonful of crab filling in the center. Top with another scoop of dough and seal the edges carefully.

Place the stuffed biscuits on your baking sheet and bake until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes depending on your oven. While still hot, brush the biscuits generously with the warm lemon butter glaze to infuse them with moisture and flavor. Let cool slightly on a rack before serving to allow the filling to set but still stay luscious.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ons

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or finely diced jalapeños into the crab filling.

• Cheese Swap: Try sharp white cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda for different cheese profiles.

• Herb Boost: Fresh dill, chives, or tarragon in the crab mixture to brighten flavor.

• Creaminess: Mix in a bit of crème fraîche or sour cream with the cream cheese for richer filling.

• Glaze Twists: Add honey or a dash of hot sauce to the lemon butter glaze for sweet-spicy balance.

Serving Suggestions – When and How to Enjoy 

• Perfect appetizer for seafood dinners or holiday gatherings.

• Serve alongside fresh garden salad or creamy chowder for a full meal.

• Pair with chilled white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a light beer.

• Great for brunch spreads or elevated snack boards.

• Wrap leftovers individually and reheat gently to keep texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips 

• Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days; reheat in oven for best texture.

• Freeze unbaked biscuits arranged on a sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

• Prepare crab filling ahead and refrigerate separately; assemble just before baking.

• Reapply warm lemon butter glaze after reheating to refresh flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q: Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, but opt for lump crab meat and drain well to avoid excess moisture.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent soggy biscuits?
Keep crab filling relatively dry and avoid overfilling the biscuits.

Q: Can these biscuits be made gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but texture may vary slightly.

Q: How do I make the lemon butter glaze extra glossy?
Whisk warm butter with lemon juice and zest vigorously before brushing.

Q: Can I prepare these ahead for a party?
Yes, freeze unbaked biscuits and crab filling separately; bake fresh for best results.

Final Thoughts – A Seafood Lover’s Delight

Crab Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Lemon Butter combine indulgent comfort with a touch of elegance. The blend of buttery cheddar biscuits, sweet crab, and zesty glaze makes them a standout appetizer or snack that’s surprisingly easy to make. Once you try this recipe, it’ll be a go-to for impressing guests or elevating your own seafood nights at home. Don’t be surprised if these disappear fast—grab one before they’re all gone!