Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Substitution suggestion: If you prefer, use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry for a lighter, crispier texture.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, green onions, red bell pepper, and parsley. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the crab lumps intact for texture.
- Season the mixture lightly with salt and pepper. Remember, crab and Old Bay seasoning already add saltiness, so taste as you go.
- Unfold the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 6 equal squares, giving you a total of 12 pieces.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the crab filling onto the center of each square.
- Brush the edges of each square with the beaten egg. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Place each filled pastry on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
- Optional: Lightly score the top of each bomb with a knife to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they should look crisp and inviting.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, just like Mama Lou always insisted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
