45 Best Imitation Crab Recipes 🦀 Beyond Crab Salad & Seafood Salad (2024)

These imitation crab recipes are more than crab salad but still have imitation crab meat as the feature of these delicious recipes.

45 Best Imitation Crab Recipes 🦀 Beyond Crab Salad & Seafood Salad (1)
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  • Want To Save This Recipe?
  • 🦀 Best Imitation Crab Recipes
  • Crab Twice Baked Potatoes
  • Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe
  • SEAFOOD MACARONI SALAD
  • Seafood Enchiladas with Imitation Crab
  • CHINESE BUFFET CRAB CASSEROLE
  • Crab Stuffed Whitefish
  • Imitation Crab Ceviche
  • QUICK CRAB QUICHE
  • Mexican Crab co*cktail
  • COPYCAT RED LOBSTER CRAB ALFREDO
  • Imitation Crab Dip Recipe
  • Hot Imitation Crab Dip
  • Buffalo Crab Dip
  • Cajun Style Crab Dip
  • Cajun Lime Corn Chowder with Crab
  • FISH PIZZA RECIPE
  • 🍣 Sushi
  • IMITATION CRAB SUSHI BAKE
  • CALIFORNIA ROLL IN A BOWL
  • Wasabi Mayo Crab Onigirazu
  • 🍥 Imitation Crab Salad Recipes
  • SPICY CRAB KANI SALAD
  • Minnesota Crab Louie
  • Subway Seafood Sensation
  • CRAB PASTA SALAD
  • CRAB CRESCENT BITES
  • Poor Man’s Lobster Rolls
  • Crab Roll Recipe
  • 🍤 Crab Cakes and Crab Rangoon
  • FRIED CRAB STICKS
  • CHEESY CRAB RANGOON CASSEROLE
  • Crab Rangoon Dip
  • CRAB RANGOON PIZZA RECIPE
  • Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls
  • IMITATION CRAB CAKES
  • More Easy Imitation Crab Meat Seafood Recipes
  • SHRIMP AND CRAB PASTA
  • Imitation Crab Chimichangas
  • Creamy Crab Soup with Imitation Crab
  • Sushi Roll with Imitation Crab
  • Spicy Kani Salad Recipe
  • Imitation Crab Cake Recipe
  • Cheesy Crab Pasta Casserole
  • Seafood Salad
  • Crab Rangoon Dip
  • Cold Crab Pasta Salad with Fake Crab Meat
  • 📝 Frequently asked questions, answers and tips:
  • 🍱 More Recipes To Explore
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  • 👩🏻‍🍳 Sarah Mock
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🦀 Best Imitation Crab Recipes

Crab Twice Baked Potatoes

This delicious crab twice-baked potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. They're made with simple ingredients like potatoes, butter, milk, sour cream, cheese, and crab. The potatoes are baked until soft, then scooped out and mixed with the other ingredients. The mixture is then piped back into the potato skins and baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly. These potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Seafood Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you're looking for a twist on classic mac and cheese, this seafood mac and cheese recipe is a must-try! It's creamy and rich with the perfect blend of seafood and cheesy goodness. You'll love the combination of shrimp, shredded imitation crab, and scallops mixed in with tender pasta, all coated in a savory cheese sauce.

SEAFOOD MACARONI SALAD

Packed with succulent shrimp and crab meat, and flavored with tangy Old Bay seasoning, this salad is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the warm weather.

Seafood Enchiladas with Imitation Crab

This recipe is a delicious and easy way to make seafood enchiladas at home. It's made with imitation crab meat, cheese, enchilada sauce, and a few other simple ingredients. The enchiladas are baked in the oven until they're bubbly and golden brown, and they're served with sour cream and green onions for garnish.

CHINESE BUFFET CRAB CASSEROLE

Love crab meat but don't want to go to a buffet? This recipe has got you covered! With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate that delicious crab meat dish from your favorite Chinese restaurant at home. Plus, it's a fraction of the cost and you can customize it to your liking.

Crab Stuffed Whitefish

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers! Imagine a flaky and tender flounder stuffed with succulent crab meat, seasonings, and a creamy filling. The combination of textures and flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Don't worry if you're not an expert cook, this recipe is easy to follow and the results are impressive.

Imitation Crab Ceviche

This recipe combines imitation crab meat, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a few other ingredients to create a delicious and tangy ceviche that's perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. No cooking required! Simply mix the ingredients together, let them marinate, and serve with tortilla chips or on tostadas.

QUICK CRAB QUICHE

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves quiche and seafood. It combines the rich flavors of crab meat with creamy Swiss cheese to create a dish that's both savory and satisfying. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, so you don't need to be an experienced cook to make a delicious crab quiche.

Mexican Crab co*cktail

This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who want to spice up their appetizer game. It combines imitation crabmeat with a delicious blend of vegetables and spices, resulting in a mouth-watering Mexican-style co*cktail. You won't be able to resist the flavors of lime, avocado, cilantro, and jalapeno peppers. Whether you're hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty snack, this easy recipe will be just what you are looking for.

COPYCAT RED LOBSTER CRAB ALFREDO

Do you love the Crab Alfredo from Red Lobster but don't want to spend a ton of money eating out? Well, I have a treat for you! This recipe is a copycat of the popular dish that you can easily make at home. It's a creamy, delicious pasta dish that's perfect for a date night or family dinner. The best part is, you don't have to be a master chef to whip this up.

Imitation Crab Dip Recipe

The creamy and flavorful dip is made with imitation crab meat, cream cheese, mayo, and spices. Simply mix everything together and serve with crackers or veggies.

Hot Imitation Crab Dip

It's a hot and creamy dip made with fake crab, cream cheese, and a few other flavorful ingredients. The hot crab dip is simple to make and can be ready in no time. It's the perfect dish to bring to a party or to enjoy at home with some chips or veggies.

Buffalo Crab Dip

It's a creamy, cheesy dip with a spicy kick thanks to buffalo sauce and crab meat. Perfect for parties or game day, it's super fast to make and always a hit. Just gather your ingredients, mix them together, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. Serve it up with some tortilla chips or veggies for a tasty and satisfying snack.

Cajun Style Crab Dip

This spicy and creamy Cajun-style crab dip is the perfect appetizer for your next party or gathering. It combines succulent crab meat with a blend of cheeses, spices, and hot sauce for a bold and flavorful taste that will keep your guests coming back for more. Just bake it until bubbly and serve with your favorite crackers or crusty bread.

Cajun Lime Corn Chowder with Crab

A creamy and flavorful soup made with fresh sweet corn, potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with Cajun spices and a splash of lime juice. And the best part? It's topped off with succulent crab meat for an extra burst of flavor.

FISH PIZZA RECIPE

This recipe is for a mouthwatering seafood pizza that is sure to impress. It's loaded with shrimp, scallops, and calamari, and is topped with a blend of cheeses and a homemade tomato sauce. The crust is crispy and perfectly baked. This pizza is perfect for seafood lovers looking to switch up their pizza game.

🍣 Sushi

IMITATION CRAB SUSHI BAKE

This recipe for imitation crab sushi bake is a fun way to enjoy delicious sushi flavors without all the hassle of traditional sushi-making. It's perfect for sushi lovers who want something quick and easy, with a cheesy, creamy twist.

The ingredients are simple and affordable, making this recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. With a crispy, golden brown top and a savory, umami flavor, this sushi bake is sure to become a new favorite.

CALIFORNIA ROLL IN A BOWL

Want to enjoy the taste of a California roll without the hassle of rolling it up? This recipe has got you covered! It's all about bringing together the perfect combination of fresh veggies, imitation crab sticks, and rice to create a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for lunch or dinner.

Wasabi Mayo Crab Onigirazu

It's a mouthwatering Japanese-inspired dish that's perfect for a quick bite or a light meal. Imagine tender crab meat mixed with spicy wasabi mayo, wrapped in layers of sushi rice, nori seaweed, and fresh veggies.

It's a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with joy! And the best part is, it's super simple to assemble and pack for on-the-go snacking.

🍥 Imitation Crab Salad Recipes

SPICY CRAB KANI SALAD

This spicy kani salad recipe is all about the perfect summer salad with a twist! It's light, refreshing and easy to make. Imagine a bowl of crab meat, cucumber, carrot, and avocado all tossed together with a zingy dressing. It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch in every bite. Don't forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

Minnesota Crab Louie

This creamy, flavorful dressing is loaded with imitation crab meat and shrimp, all with a spicy kick from the added chili garlic sauce. It's a great way to use up leftover crab and shrimp, and it's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Serve it over lettuce, on a sandwich, or as a dip for crackers.

Subway Seafood Sensation

This recipe teaches you how to make a delicious seafood sensation sandwich at home, just like the one you can get at Subway! With a mix of succulent seafood and creamy sauce, this sandwich is sure to be a hit at your next meal. You'll love how easy it is to make and how much money you'll save by skipping the trip to the restaurant.

CRAB PASTA SALAD

This recipe combines tender pasta, succulent crab meat, and fresh veggies to create a mouthwatering pasta salad that is perfect for any occasion. The flavors of the creamy dressing are perfectly balanced with the crisp vegetables and tender pasta, making every bite a delicious explosion of flavors.

CRAB CRESCENT BITES

This recipe combines the savory taste of crab with the buttery goodness of crescent rolls. They're perfect for parties or just as a quick snack. With only a few ingredients, you can have a delicious dish in no time.

Poor Man’s Lobster Rolls

It's a budget-friendly version of lobster rolls that's just as delicious. Instead of using pricey lobster meat, this recipe calls for white fish. You'll also need some spices, butter, mayonnaise, and hot dog buns. The result is a savory and creamy seafood sandwich that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Crab Roll Recipe

This recipe features succulent crab meat mixed with zesty seasonings and creamy mayo, all nestled in a soft and toasted roll. Perfect for lunch, dinner or a quick snack, this seafood delight is sure to impress your taste buds. Just follow the steps and enjoy a taste of the ocean in every bite!

🍤 Crab Cakes and Crab Rangoon

FRIED CRAB STICKS

Got a craving for some crispy and flavorful bites? The crab sticks are coated in a light and airy tempura batter and fried to perfection, giving them that crunchy exterior and juicy interior. The Old Bay seasoning adds a zesty and savory flavor that'll have you wanting more. Crab rangoons are perfect as a snack or appetizer.

CHEESY CRAB RANGOON CASSEROLE

Loaded with creamy and cheesy goodness and featuring the classic flavors of crab rangoon appetizers this irresistible blend of crab meat, cream cheese, and crispy wontons, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Just follow the simple steps to layer the ingredients and bake until golden brown and bubbly.

Crab Rangoon Dip

This delicious recipe is a yummy twist on classic Crab Rangoon. It involves making a creamy, cheesy dip a mix of delicious seasonings. Once the dip is ready, simply add in some canned crab meat, and voila - a perfect appetizer for any occasion! Serve with crackers or chips and watch your guests devour it in seconds.

CRAB RANGOON PIZZA RECIPE

This super easy recipe is a fusion of two delicious classics - pizza and crab Rangoon! Imagine a crispy, golden crust topped with a creamy crab mixture, and spices and then it's then baked until bubbly and garnished with green onions and sweet chili sauce. This unique dish has easy-to-follow instructions and savor the perfect blend of flavors in every bite.

Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls

These tasty treats are packed with creamy cheese, crab meat, and plenty of spices. Just roll them up, fry them to a golden brown, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or just a tasty snack any time of day.

IMITATION CRAB CAKES

Do you love crab cakes but want a more affordable and sustainable option? Check out this recipe that uses imitation crab meat instead. It's simple to make and packed with flavor from the seasoning blend and fresh herbs.

More Easy Imitation Crab Meat Seafood Recipes

SHRIMP AND CRAB PASTA

Here's a beloved recipe featuring imitation crab and shrimp pasta that I think you'll love. The deliciousness doesn't end there. Leftover crab and shrimp pasta is just as delightful, ensuring your enjoyment lingers even after the first meal.

Imitation Crab Chimichangas

Creamy Crab Soup with Imitation Crab

Sushi Roll with Imitation Crab

Spicy Kani Salad Recipe

This Kani Salad recipe captures the authentic flavors of the side dish you'd enjoy at a Japanese Steakhouse. It features delicate crab strips alongside julienned vegetables, all coated in a zesty mayonnaise dressing. To add a delightful crunch, we top it off with crispy panko breadcrumbs. It's the ultimate blend of flavors that'll transport you straight to the dining experience of a Japanese Steakhouse.

Imitation Crab Cake Recipe

Get The Recipe

Cheesy Crab Pasta Casserole

Seafood Salad

Crab Rangoon Dip

Cold Crab Pasta Salad with Fake Crab Meat

📝 Frequently asked questions, answers and tips:

Is imitation crab already cooked?

Yes, imitation crab meat is typically already cooked during the manufacturing process. The processing of imitation crab meat typically involves cooking, shredding, and then re-forming a mixture of fish meat, starch, and various flavorings into the familiar crab-like shape.

This means that it is ready to eat straight out of the package and does not require further cooking, although it can be added to hot dishes and heated through if desired. It is important to note that imitation crab meat is not made from actual crab meat, but rather from a combination of fish and other ingredients.

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45 Best Imitation Crab Recipes 🦀 Beyond Crab Salad & Seafood Salad (5)

👩🏻‍🍳 Sarah Mock

CEO/Owner/Founder/Culinary Blogger

Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 14 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.

    45 Best Imitation Crab Recipes 🦀 Beyond Crab Salad & Seafood Salad (2024)

    FAQs

    What is the best way to cook imitation crab meat? ›

    Sautee some garlic and chopped onions in olive oil. Add some of your favorite spices (I like Italian seasoning) and add some shredded imitation crab meat. Don't cook too long, just enough to warm it and serve hot over pasta with plenty of fresh Parmesan.

    How long can imitation crab stay in the fridge? ›

    If you have a leftover opened package of imitation crab meat, store it in a refrigerator set at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). When it's properly stored in the fridge, it should be eaten within three days just like other varieties of fish, per the USDA.

    What is imitation crab salad made of? ›

    Imitation crab is made from surimi, which is fish flesh that has been deboned, washed to remove fat and unwanted bits, then minced into a paste. This paste is blended with other ingredients before being heated and pressed into shapes that mimic crab meat ( 1 ).

    How can you tell if fake crab meat is bad? ›

    The most obvious sign that imitation crab has gone bad is a fishy smell, so toss it out if the odor is strong. Whenever leftovers look slimy or taste sour you can bet the imitation crab is past its prime and needs to go in the garbage, even if you haven't reached the sell-by date that's on the package.

    What kind of fish is imitation crab made of? ›

    What Is Imitation Crab? The key to that flavor is surimi, a seafood paste made from white fish, artificial and natural flavors, starch, sugar, and sodium. And the preferred white fish in this amalgam is Alaskan Pollock—the same variety most commonly utilized in frozen fish sticks and fast-food seafood sandwiches.

    Is it OK to freeze imitation crab meat? ›

    Imitation crab sold in loose form in trays in fish cases will keep in the refrigerator three to five days. When frozen, they should be used within six months. Signs of spoiled imitation crab are similar to those of fish, Kishimoto said--foul fishy smell, slimy surface and sour taste.

    Why is my crab black inside? ›

    Meat with mushy texture originates from soft-shelled crabs, a problem which can easily be rectified by culling. Black discolouration on the other hand, is likely caused by the enzymatic oxidation of polyhydroxy- phenyl and aminophenyl compounds in the tissues.

    Can you eat imitation crab past the expiration date? ›

    Eating expired food, especially seafood like imitation crab meat, can be dangerous and is not recommended. Expiration dates are there to indicate the freshness and safety of a product. Consuming food that has passed its expiration date can pose health risks, including foodborne illnesses.

    Is imitation crab salad good for you? ›

    Imitation crab is highly processed and contains food additives like MSG, which can trigger adverse side effects in some people. Compared to regular crab, the imitation crab meat nutrition profile also lacks many of the vitamins and minerals found in fresh crab.

    What is seafood salad mix made of? ›

    This seafood salad recipe is very simple to make. Mix together the main ingredients: Imitation crab meat, shrimp, onion and celery. Mix together the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, lemon juice, old bay seasoning, dill, salt and pepper. Mix the dressing into the main ingredient.

    Can dogs eat crab? ›

    Feeding crab to your dog is fine, but you'll want to shell it first—crab legs and shells are choking hazards, so only serve the white meat inside. 4. Feed your dog crab in small amounts. Crabmeat has high sodium and cholesterol content, so it can be fattening for your dog.

    Can you eat imitation crab raw? ›

    Can you eat imitation crab raw? Yes. It is pre-cooked, so you are able to eat it straight from the package. Many people use it as part of a larger recipe though, adding it to cream of crab soup, crab Rangoon or crab salad.

    Is imitation crab bad for cholesterol? ›

    Imitation crab has low calorie, fat, and cholesterol content. This makes it a good choice for those who are trying to lose or maintain weight and are looking for low-cholesterol foods. If you're worried about the additives in such crab substitutes, there are also healthier, additive-free versions.

    Are crab sticks bad for you? ›

    In addition, crab stick products include many different ingredients, including seafood products. This can increase the odds of food poisoning or allergies. Especially for brands that do not have complete ingredients and nutritional information on product packaging.

    How to cook packaged imitation crab? ›

    “To make simply unwind the imitation crab, heat a mix of butter, garlic, salt & fresh chives and toss! Done in less than 5 minutes.” Imitation crab meat is already cooked and is ready to be eaten or to be used in a hot dish. My favorite is to melt butter, add lemon and garlic and serve the lemon butter as a dip.

    How do you cook store bought imitation crab? ›

    Sautéing Imitation Crab

    Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the imitation crab to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it turns slightly golden. Season the crab with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, or dill.

    Can you heat up imitation crab meat? ›

    Imitation crab meat can be served chilled, at room temperature, or warmed up. Cook it for too long and it will dry up or fall apart, and ultimately be rendered tasteless. One of the best ways to warm up imitation crab is to use a steamer. It's easy to make your own if you don't have one, too.

    How do you grill imitation crab meat? ›

    Season the crab with a pinch of salt and pepper or your favorite seafood seasoning to introduce additional layers of flavor. Once the grill is ready, place the imitation crab directly on the grates. Grill for about two to three minutes per side, allowing the grill's magic to work.

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