Oh my gosh, let me tell you about my latest air fryer obsession – these insanely delicious Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs! I stumbled on this combo when I had leftover shrimp and crab from a seafood boil, and let me tell you, it was a happy accident. The air fryer works absolute magic here, turning refrigerated biscuit dough into golden, crispy pockets of joy while keeping the shrimp-crab filling perfectly tender inside.
What I love most (besides the fact that my kids actually eat seafood this way) is how the garlic butter seeps into every nook and cranny of these little bombs. And the cleanup? Practically nonexistent compared to deep frying. The first time I made them, my husband walked in and said “What smells so amazing?” – that’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper. They’re fancy enough for game day but easy enough for a random Tuesday when you want something special.
Trust me, once you try these air fryer Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs, you’ll start keeping shrimp and crab in your freezer just for this recipe. They cook in minutes but disappear even faster – I’ve learned to make a double batch because my family inhales them straight from the basket!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs
These little flavor bombs are about to become your new favorite appetizer, and here’s why:
- Crispy perfection: The air fryer gives that golden crunch without deep frying
- Ready in minutes: From fridge to table in under 25 minutes
- Flavor explosion: Sweet shrimp, rich crab, and garlic butter in every bite
- Easy cleanup: No greasy pans – just wipe the basket
- Crowd-pleaser: Even seafood skeptics go crazy for these
Seriously, they’re dangerously addictive – consider yourself warned!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible seafood pockets. I’m picky about my ingredients because small changes make a big difference in flavor and texture:
- The seafood stars:
- 1 lb medium shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped rough – I leave mine a bit chunky for texture)
- 1/2 lb fresh crab meat (please don’t use imitation – the real stuff makes all the difference)
- The cheesy goodness:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (the whole milk kind melts better)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan (the real deal, not the green can!)
- The flavor boosters:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 3 if you’re garlic-obsessed like me)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (trust me, double garlic is the secret)
- 1/4 tsp each of paprika, salt, and black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (dried works in a pinch but fresh is better)
- The wrapping:
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough (the flaky layers kind, not the dense ones)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for that golden crunch)
Pro tip: Have everything prepped and ready before you start assembling – it makes the process so much smoother!
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s the short list of kitchen tools that’ll make these crabby shrimp bombs a breeze to whip up:
- Your trusty air fryer (mine’s a basic 6-quart model)
- A medium mixing bowl for the seafood filling
- Measuring spoons (I always eyeball the garlic, though!)
- Pastry brush for that buttery finish
Bonus if you’ve got parchment paper liners – they save cleanup time, though I often skip them because the butter prevents sticking just fine. That’s it! No fancy gadgets needed.
How to Make Air Fryer Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs
Okay, friends – here’s where the magic happens! These steps are so simple, but I’ll walk you through each one to make sure your bombs turn out perfect. The first time I made these, I learned a few lessons (like sealing those edges REALLY well), so you get to benefit from my trial and error!
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by giving your chopped shrimp and crab a quick pat with paper towels – we want them just moist enough to hold everything together, not swimming in liquid. Toss them in a bowl with the mozzarella, parmesan, and all those gorgeous seasonings. Here’s my secret: use your hands to mix gently! A spoon can overwork the seafood, but fingers keep the texture just right. You’ll know it’s ready when you see even distribution of all those garlicky, cheesy bits throughout.
Step 2: Assemble the Bombs
Pop open that biscuit can (that “whoosh” never gets old!) and separate the dough rounds. Flatten each one between your palms – aim for about 4 inches across. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of filling right in the center (don’t get greedy – too much and they’ll burst!). Now comes the crucial part: fold the edges up and pinch SEAL TIGHTLY. I mean crimp those edges like you’re mad at them! If the dough won’t stick, dip your finger in water and run it along the edge first. Each bomb should look like a little drawstring pouch before you set it aside.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat that air fryer to 375°F – skipping this is why my first batch cooked unevenly! While it heats, brush each bomb with melted butter (this gives that gorgeous golden color). Arrange them in a single layer with some breathing room – I fit about 6 in my basket. Cook for 8 minutes first, then peek – they should be lightly golden. Need more color? Give them another 1-2 minutes. You’ll hear the cheese sizzling and smell that garlic when they’re done! Let them rest just a minute before serving – that filling is lava-hot straight out!
See? I told you it was easy! Now try not to burn your tongue diving into that first one – I never learn my lesson!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs
After making these dozens of times (yes, I’m obsessed), here are my hard-earned secrets for perfect bombs every time:
- Dry your seafood: That quick pat-down with paper towels prevents a soggy filling – I learned this the messy way!
- Cold dough works best: Use refrigerated biscuits straight from the fridge – they’re easier to handle and get flakier.
- Seal like your life depends on it: Seriously, crimp those edges twice. Burst bombs break my heart (and make a mess).
- Don’t crowd the basket: Give them space! I cook in batches for maximum crispiness.
- Brush generously: Extra butter = extra golden crunch. No skimping!
One more tip? Make extra – these disappear faster than you can say “crabby shrimp goodness”!
Serving Suggestions
Oh, the fun part – dressing up these golden beauties! My family loves dunking them in garlic aioli (just mayo with extra garlic and lemon juice), but marinara sauce works surprisingly well too. For a fresh contrast, serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over top or a simple arugula salad. They’re perfect alongside a cold beer or crisp white wine when you’re feeling fancy!
Storing and Reheating
Okay, confession time – these rarely last long enough to store at my house! But if you’ve got leftovers (lucky you), here’s how to keep them tasty: Pop cooled bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, skip the microwave – it makes them soggy. Instead, toss them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until crispy again. They won’t be quite as perfect as fresh, but still way better than most reheated snacks!
FAQs About Air Fryer Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs
Q1. Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain it really well and pick through for any shells. Fresh crab does taste best, but canned works in a pinch (I’ve used it when my seafood market was closed). Press it between paper towels to remove excess moisture so your filling doesn’t get soggy.
Q2. Why did some of my bombs burst open while cooking?
Oh no! This usually happens when either the filling’s too wet (see above about drying your seafood) or the edges weren’t sealed tight enough. Next time, really crimp those edges and maybe use slightly less filling. A little water on your fingertips can help seal stubborn dough.
Q3. Can I freeze these before or after cooking?
You can freeze the uncooked bombs on a tray first, then transfer to a bag – but honestly, the texture’s never quite the same. The biscuits can get dense when thawed. If you must freeze, reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer (add 2-3 extra minutes). Fresh is best though!
Q4. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake these at 375°F on a parchment-lined sheet for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t get quite as crispy, but still delicious! Just watch closely – ovens vary so much more than air fryers.
Q5. Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Sure thing! I’ve used my go-to buttermilk biscuit recipe when feeling ambitious. Just roll it slightly thinner than usual – about 1/4 inch thick. The refrigerated kind is quicker, but homemade adds that special touch for guests!
Nutrition Information
Just a heads up – these numbers are estimates since ingredients vary (especially depending on how generously you stuff those bombs!). Here’s the breakdown per serving (about one bomb):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 15g (thanks to all that seafood goodness!)
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 9g
Not too shabby for such a decadent-tasting treat! The shrimp and crab pack serious protein punch while keeping things light. Now go make a batch and tell me how yours turned out – tag me with your creations!
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15-Minute Air Fryer Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs – Irresistible!
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 8 bombs
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Make crispy, cheesy Crabby Shrimp Garlic Bread Bombs in your air fryer with this simple recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb crab meat
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Mix shrimp, crab meat, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Separate biscuit dough into individual pieces and flatten each.
- Spoon a portion of the shrimp-crab mixture onto each biscuit.
- Fold dough around filling, sealing edges to form balls.
- Brush each bomb with melted butter.
- Place in air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh crab meat for best flavor.
- Don’t overfill the biscuits to prevent bursting.
- Adjust cooking time based on air fryer model.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American