If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that delivers luxury with every bite, the Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe will steal your heart (and your tastebuds). Juicy avocados cradle a decadent mix of fresh lump crab meat, creamy mayo, zippy lemon, and a fragrant touch of Old Bay—each spoonful feels like a coastal escape. This dish is not only quick and impressive, it’s also versatile, fuss-free, and sure to be the star of any gathering. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a sunny brunch, let this Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe whisk you away to seafood paradise.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe comes together with a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role to create that perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, and tangy. Here’s exactly what you’ll need—and why it matters:
- Avocados: Pick ripe but firm avocados for the perfect edible “bowl” and that irresistible, creamy texture.
- Lump Crab Meat: Choose high-quality, fresh lump crab for a sweet, delicate flavor that truly shines.
- Mayonnaise: Brings everything together with its rich, smooth body and subtle tang.
- Sour Cream: Gives a cool, velvety note that lightens and balances the filling.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds complexity and a gentle hint of heat that brightens up the seafood.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh citrus sharpens flavors and helps keep the avocados vivid and green.
- Old Bay Seasoning: The classic seafood spice blend is an absolute game-changer for depth and warmth.
- Red Onion: Tiny bits of onion add crunch and pops of sweetness.
- Fresh Parsley: For a fresh, herbal lift in both flavor and color.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasoning to unlock all those vibrant flavors.
- Optional Garnish (extra parsley, paprika, lemon wedges): A simple way to add flair and even more zing to your platter.
How to Make Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Avocados
Start by halving and pitting your avocados. Run a knife gently around the stone, twist to separate, and remove the pit. Scoop out a little extra avocado from each half to make a small “bowl” for the filling (save the pulp for another use or mash it lightly into the crab mixture if you like). Arrange the halves, cut side up, on a serving plate.
Step 2: Make the Crab Filling
In a medium bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, finely chopped red onion, and parsley. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together, being careful not to break up the crab too much—you want nice, juicy pieces in every bite!
Step 3: Season to Taste
Taste the filling, then add salt and black pepper as needed. If you’re a fan of a little extra zip, this is the moment to add a dash of hot sauce or even a spoonful of chopped celery for extra crunch.
Step 4: Fill the Avocado Halves
Divide the crab mixture among the avocado halves, spooning it in generously so each avocado is beautifully stuffed. If you reserved some avocado pulp, mash it lightly and fold it into the filling before stuffing for even more creaminess.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe with sprigs of fresh parsley, a sprinkle of paprika for smoky color, and wedges of lemon for squeezing right before serving. These avocados are gorgeous served chilled or at room temperature, making them extra crowd-friendly!
How to Serve Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe with a flourish of chopped parsley for freshness, a dusting of paprika for color and smokiness, and a squeeze of lemon for vibrant brightness. If you love a little heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes or a touch of hot sauce balances the creamy richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these elegant stuffed avocados with a crisp cucumber salad, some chilled poached shrimp, or a simple tomato and basil salad. If you want to keep things extra light, a bed of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette sets the stage for the avocados to shine. For heartier appetites, toasted sourdough crostini make a perfect crunchy partner.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate! Try serving the stuffed avocados on a platter of crushed ice for a cool seafood bar effect, or present each avocado half nestled in a colorful lettuce leaf for a little touch of retro glam. Individual cocktail glasses or small ramekins are also a fun, mess-free way to elevate the Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extras, cover the stuffed avocados tightly with plastic wrap to prevent browning and refrigerate for up to one day. The acid in the lemon juice really helps keep the avocado fresh, but after about 24 hours the texture begins to soften significantly.
Freezing
Unfortunately, this recipe doesn’t freeze well—avocados tend to lose their luscious texture after thawing, and the crab filling won’t be quite as delightful. For best results, prepare and enjoy your Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe fresh.
Reheating
This is a no-cook, chilled appetizer, so there’s no need for reheating. If you’d like to bring leftovers closer to room temperature, simply let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving, but make sure they stay safe and cool overall.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh lump crab?
Yes, you can substitute canned crab meat if fresh isn’t available—just be sure to drain it well and gently pick over for any remaining shells. The flavor will still be delicious, just aim for the highest quality available.
How do I know when an avocado is perfectly ripe for this recipe?
Choose avocados that yield just slightly to gentle pressure—firm enough to hold their shape, but creamy when bitten. If they’re rock hard, ripen them for a couple of days at room temperature. If they’re too soft, they may not stand up to filling.
Is the Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! With simple, naturally gluten-free ingredients, this dish makes a perfect gluten-free appetizer or light meal—just double-check your Old Bay and other seasonings if you’re extra sensitive.
Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?
Yes, you can prep the filling and scoop the avocados a few hours in advance. Keep all components chilled and only assemble right before serving to maintain color and freshness.
What are some optional add-ins for the crab filling?
Try folding in a little chopped celery for crispiness or a diced jalapeño for heat. Fresh dill or chives also pair beautifully with the flavors in this Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe.
Final Thoughts
No matter the occasion, the Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe is a go-to for effortless elegance and unforgettable flavor. I hope it becomes a staple at your table—so don’t wait! Gather a few simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a little bite of seaside heaven.
Print
Crab Stuffed Avocados Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy richness of crab meat mixed with tangy flavors stuffed into ripe avocados for a refreshing and satisfying appetizer. This Crab Stuffed Avocados recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking a light and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados (halved and pitted)
- 1 cup lump crab meat (drained and picked over)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: extra parsley, paprika, lemon wedges
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, red onion, and parsley. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the crab meat.
- Spoon the crab mixture evenly into the avocado halves.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with additional parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- You can also add a dash of hot sauce or chopped celery for extra flavor and crunch.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be made a few hours ahead and chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed avocado half
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
