Southern Crab Beignets – Crispy, Golden & Irresistible

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Southern Crab Beignets are crispy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Crab Beignets are crispy, golden on the outside, and packed with savory, flavorful crab on the inside. These handheld bites are inspired by the French Quarter but bring a Southern seafood twist that makes them unforgettable. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, party snack, or brunch showstopper, these beignets are sure to impress. Dip them in remoulade or enjoy as-is — they’re crunchy, creamy, and totally irresistible.

Ingredients

For the crab beignets:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup lump crab meat (picked through for shells)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Optional for serving:

  • Remoulade sauce or spicy aioli
  • Lemon wedges

Directions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cayenne.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and milk until combined. Pour into the dry ingredients and mix into a thick batter.
  3. Fold in crab meat, green onions, parsley, and lemon zest. Stir gently to combine without breaking up the crab too much.
  4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Drop heaping teaspoons of the batter into the hot oil, frying 4–5 at a time.
  6. Fry 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  7. Serve warm with remoulade sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes 12–15 beignets
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Add diced red bell pepper or jalapeño for extra flavor and color
  • Swap crab for shrimp or crawfish if desired
  • Use Old Bay seasoning instead of cayenne for a Chesapeake twist
  • Mix in a little shredded cheese for richness
  • Make mini versions for bite-sized party snacks

Storage and Reheating

  • Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days
  • Reheat in a toaster oven or 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until crisp
  • Avoid microwaving as it softens the exterior
  • Not ideal for freezing once fried, but batter can be prepped in advance and chilled

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, just be sure it’s well-drained and picked over for shells.

Do these taste fishy?
Not at all! The crab is mild and sweet, balanced by herbs and spices.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend — texture may vary slightly.

What dipping sauces go best?
Remoulade, tartar sauce, or a zesty lemon aioli pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Southern Crab Beignets are the ultimate combination of crispy, savory, and indulgent. They bring a taste of the coast to your table and are guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether served as a unique appetizer or a standout snack, these crab-stuffed beignets deliver big flavor in every bite. Fry up a batch and get ready for rave reviews!

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