Indulge in the rich flavors of the Pacific coast with these 20 savory Dungeness crab meat recipes. Native to the waters off California and Oregon, Dungeness crabs are prized for their sweet, succulent flesh and versatility in a wide range of dishes. From classic comfort food to international-inspired creations, we’ve gathered a collection of mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of this delicious crustacean.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these Dungeness crab recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead and get cracking (pun intended!) with our top picks below, featuring everything from creamy bisques to spicy tacos and more.
Creamy Dungeness Crab Bisque
Savor the rich flavors of the Pacific Coast with this decadent bisque recipe, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and a hint of creamy indulgence.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup Dungeness crab meat (fresh or canned)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let bisque simmer for 10-12 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add Dungeness crab meat; stir gently.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of succulent Dungeness crab, garlic butter, and al dente pasta in this indulgent yet easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Dungeness crab meat and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the crab is lightly browned.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the garlic butter-crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Dungeness Crab Tacos
Experience the flavor of the Pacific coast with this bold and delicious recipe, combining succulent Dungeness crab with spicy kick. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a seafood-filled fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and diced avocado for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning the crab mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
These decadent mushrooms are packed with the sweet and tender flavor of fresh Dungeness crab, perfectly complemented by creamy goat cheese and savory herbs. A perfect appetizer or main course for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 12 large mushroom caps (button, cremini, or shiitake)
• 1/2 cup freshly cooked Dungeness crab meat
• 1/4 cup soft goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, goat cheese, and garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with butter and sprinkle with parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Dungeness Crab Cakes
These succulent crab cakes are a staple of coastal cuisine, packed with fresh Dungeness crab meat and flavorful spices. Perfect for a seafood dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in mayonnaise and beaten egg until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size of cakes.
4. Shape each portion into a round patty.
5. Pan-fry crab cakes in about 1/2 inch of melted butter or oil over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite tartar sauce or cocktail sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent Dungeness crab meat with creamy avocado, crunchy red onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (jumbo lump)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, avocado, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh.
Cheesy Dungeness Crab Dip
This addictive dip combines the sweetness of fresh Dungeness crab with the richness of melted cheese, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crab meat (fresh or canned)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and chives. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Gently fold in crab meat.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Louie Salad
A classic West Coast salad gets a fresh twist with the addition of succulent Dungeness crab, crisp greens, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked Dungeness crab meat
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, celery, and red onion.
2. Gently fold in the cooked Dungeness crab meat.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder
Savor the sweet flavor of succulent Dungeness crab paired with tender corn kernels in this creamy, comforting chowder. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add corn kernels; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth.
5. Gradually add the wet mixture to the pot, stirring constantly.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
7. Fold in crab meat; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Sushi Rolls
Experience the fresh flavor of Dungeness crab wrapped in sushi rice and nori seaweed sheets. This simple recipe yields delicious and elegant rolls perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8-10 sheets of nori seaweed
– 1/2 pound Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Optional: sliced avocado, carrot, and cucumber for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir into cooked sushi rice while still warm.
3. Cut nori sheets in half and lay flat on a surface.
4. Place about 1/2 cup of sushi rice onto the nori sheet, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Arrange 1-2 tablespoons of Dungeness crab meat along the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the nori sheet using gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce, sesame oil, and optional garnishes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Herb Dungeness Crab Linguine
This refreshing seafood pasta dish combines the sweetness of fresh crab with the brightness of lemon and herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat (claw and body)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and stir until heated through.
4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and dill weed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked linguine pasta and crab mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs game with the addition of succulent Dungeness crab meat, perfect for any occasion or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat (Dungeness)
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the crab meat.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle with chives or paprika for garnish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold preparation
Dungeness Crab and Spinach Quiche
This savory quiche combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the earthiness of spinach, perfect for a brunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup flaked Dungeness crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the cooked spinach mixture in the pie crust, followed by the flaked crab meat.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure to cover all surfaces.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Artichoke Gratin
This gratin is a perfect combination of tender Dungeness crab, artichoke hearts, and creamy bechamel sauce. It’s an impressive dish for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
– 2 artichoke hearts (canned or fresh), drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Combine cooked crab mixture and artichoke hearts in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour bechamel sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Mango Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche combines the sweetness of mango with the tender flavors of Dungeness crab, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat, fresh or frozen
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, mango, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve chilled, with tortilla chips or tostadas.
Cooking Time: None (raw)
Dungeness Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons
Savor the sweet flavor of Dungeness crab paired with the richness of cream cheese in these bite-sized wontons.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 24-28 wrappers)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions (green onions) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Dungeness crab meat. Mix until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the crab-cream cheese mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point, pressing gently to seal.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the wontons to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove the wontons from the water with a slotted spoon and serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Wild Rice Pilaf
This recipe combines the flavors of the sea with the earthy goodness of wild rice. A perfect blend of textures and tastes, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup Dungeness crab meat (jumbo lump)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine wild rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in crab meat, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and stir in the crab mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Asparagus Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, flavorful risotto dish featuring succulent Dungeness crab and tender asparagus. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in asparagus and crab meat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Sweet Corn Fritters
Savor the sweetness of summer with these crispy fritters packed with tender Dungeness crab and fresh corn kernels. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, mix crab meat, corn kernels, and buttermilk until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop fritter batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 4-5 minutes per batch (depending on size).
Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Gumbo
This classic Louisiana-style gumbo is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines succulent Dungeness crab, shrimp, and vegetables in a rich roux-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Add paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in flour to make roux; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Gradually add diced tomatoes and fish stock or water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until crab and shrimp are cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover a treasure trove of flavors with these 20 mouthwatering Dungeness crab meat recipes! From classic dishes like crab cakes and bisque to creative twists like tacos, sushi rolls, and quiche, there’s something for every seafood lover. Try your hand at creamy dips, savory salads, and comforting chowders featuring the sweet and tender flesh of this prized crustacean. Get ready to indulge in a world of flavor with these delectable Dungeness crab recipes!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
