Crab Cake Egg Rolls

Why You’ll Love Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe

These Crab Cake Egg Rolls are the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The creamy, tender crab filling pairs beautifully with the crispy, golden egg roll wrapper. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a fun party snack, or even a unique twist on a classic dinner, they’re always a hit. The addition of a zesty dipping sauce elevates the taste, making them even more delicious. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, and you’ll love the combination of both fresh seafood and the familiar crunch of egg rolls.

Ingredients

For the crab filling:

• 1 pound lump crab meat, drained and picked over

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 egg, beaten

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the egg rolls:

• 10 egg roll wrappers

• 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying

For the dipping sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the crab filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and parsley. Gently fold the mixture until well combined. Add the beaten egg and season with salt and pepper. Mix carefully so as not to break up the crab meat too much.

2. Assemble the egg rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond). Place about 2 tablespoons of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Roll the wrapper tightly, sealing the top corner with a little water to help it stick. Repeat with the remaining filling and wrappers.

3. Fry the egg rolls: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the egg rolls, a few at a time, and fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

4. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Serve the crab cake egg rolls hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5 (2 egg rolls per serving)

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 10-15 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy crab rolls: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the crab filling for an extra kick of heat.

• Crispy oven-baked option: For a healthier alternative, bake the egg rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

• Add vegetables: You can add finely chopped celery, green onions, or bell peppers to the crab mixture for extra crunch and flavor.

• Crab and shrimp rolls: Mix shrimp with the crab for a surf-and-turf variation that adds a delightful twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover crab cake egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. They can also be reheated in an air fryer for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before frying.

Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab?

While real crab provides the best flavor, imitation crab meat (surimi) can be used as a more affordable alternative. Just be aware that the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

Are these egg rolls freezer-friendly?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled but uncooked egg rolls. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly brush the egg rolls with oil to help them crisp up in the oven.

Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the dipping sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

How do I make sure the egg rolls don’t burst open while frying?

Make sure to roll the egg rolls tightly and seal the edges with a little water. Frying at the right temperature (medium-high heat) also helps ensure they cook quickly and don’t burst open.

How can I make these egg rolls spicier?

Add some hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crab mixture for an extra spicy kick. You can also use a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo.

Can I use a different kind of seafood for these egg rolls?

Absolutely! You can use shrimp, lobster, or even scallops in place of or alongside the crab for a seafood medley.

How can I make the crab filling fluffier?

To make the crab filling lighter, you can fold in a little cream cheese or ricotta cheese, which will add a creamy texture without weighing it down.

Can I make these without the dipping sauce?

While the dipping sauce adds a great tangy flavor, you can certainly enjoy these egg rolls without it. They are delicious enough on their own!

Conclusion

Crab Cake Egg Rolls are a creative and irresistible twist on traditional crab cakes. Crispy, golden, and filled with tender crab meat, these little bites of heaven are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party or enjoying them as a snack, they are sure to be a crowd favorite. The accompanying dipping sauce adds a zesty touch, making these egg rolls even more delightful. Enjoy the crunchy, flavorful goodness in every bite!