This Crab Rangoon Bombs Recipe transforms the traditional cream cheese appetizer into a crispy, breaded snack that is perfect for any gathering. By swapping wonton wrappers for a golden panko crust, you get a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the gooey, savory crab filling inside.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe because it takes the best parts of a classic crab rangoon—the creamy filling and the savory seafood—and makes them even more indulgent with a double-cheese blend. The addition of mozzarella ensures a perfect cheese pull, while the panko breading provides a much thicker, crunchier texture than standard thin wrappers. It is an excellent party appetizer that can be prepared in advance and fried just before your guests arrive.
Ingredients
- 1 Package Cream Cheese (softened)
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 2 cans (or fresh lump/white meat) crab, drained
- 1 cup Imitation crab, flaked
- 5 Green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Panko Breadcrumbs (for coating)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable Oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, drained crab meat, flaked imitation crab, chopped green onions, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the mixture to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
- When you are ready to cook, set up a breading station. Place the beaten eggs in one shallow bowl and the panko breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.
- Take the chilled crab mixture and roll it into small balls, roughly the size of a half-dollar or a golf ball.
- Dip each ball into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated, and then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until the entire surface is covered.
- Set the prepared bombs on a tray. It is best to prepare all the bombs before you start heating the oil so you can fry them in batches without rushing.
- Fill a frying pan with vegetable oil up to the midpoint and heat it to 350°F. Carefully drop the bombs into the hot oil.
- Fry the bombs until the panko coating is golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the Crab Rangoon Bombs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Expert Tips / Pro Tips
To ensure the best results with your Crab Rangoon Bombs Recipe, always make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, as this prevents lumps. If the mixture feels too soft to roll even after chilling, you can pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm it up quickly. Using a kitchen thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F is crucial; if the oil is too cold, the bombs will become greasy, and if it is too hot, the outside will burn before the cheese inside melts.
Variations & Substitutions
If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a teaspoon of Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture. For those who want a more traditional flavor profile, adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of garlic powder can enhance the savory notes. If you do not have mozzarella on hand, Monterey Jack is an excellent substitute because it melts beautifully. You can also use all real crab meat if you prefer a more premium seafood flavor, or all imitation crab for a more budget-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy treats are best served warm while the cheese is still melted. Pair them with a side of sweet chili sauce, duck sauce, or a simple soy-ginger dipping sauce. They make a fantastic addition to a pupu platter or as a side dish for a homemade stir-fry or fried rice dinner.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Leftover bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their signature crunch, avoid the microwave when reheating. Instead, place them in an oven or an air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through. If you wish to freeze them, it is best to freeze them after breading but before frying. Place the raw bombs on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 9g |

Crab Rangoon Bombs Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, drained crab meat, flaked imitation crab, chopped green onions, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.1 package Cream Cheese, 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, 2 cans crab meat, 1 cup Imitation crab, 5 Green onions, Salt
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the mixture to firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
- When you are ready to cook, set up a breading station. Place the beaten eggs in one shallow bowl and the panko breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.Panko Breadcrumbs, 2 eggs
- Take the chilled crab mixture and roll it into small balls, roughly the size of a half-dollar or a golf ball.
- Dip each ball into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated, and then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until the entire surface is covered.Panko Breadcrumbs, 2 eggs
- Set the prepared bombs on a tray. It is best to prepare all the bombs before you start heating the oil so you can fry them in batches without rushing.
- Fill a frying pan with vegetable oil up to the midpoint and heat it to 350°F. Carefully drop the bombs into the hot oil.Vegetable Oil
- Fry the bombs until the panko coating is golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the Crab Rangoon Bombs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Notes
FAQ
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry these bombs. Spray them generously with cooking oil spray and air fry at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
What is the difference between real crab and imitation crab in this recipe?
Real crab provides a more delicate, authentic seafood flavor and a flakier texture. Imitation crab, which is made from processed white fish, is slightly sweeter and firmer. This recipe uses both to get the best of both worlds in terms of flavor and texture.
Why did my crab bombs fall apart in the oil?
This usually happens if the filling wasn’t chilled long enough or if the oil wasn’t hot enough. Make sure the mixture is cold and firm before breading, and ensure the oil has reached 350°F before frying to “set” the crust instantly.
Can I use different breadcrumbs?
While panko provides the best crunch, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. However, the texture will be denser and less airy than the traditional panko version.