Crab-Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Tangy Lemon Butter

Golden, buttery, and packed with flavor, these stuffed biscuits combine flaky cheddar dough with a creamy crab filling and a zesty lemon garlic butter glaze. They’re an indulgent treat ideal for appetizers, brunch, or a savory side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Buttery biscuits with cheesy flavor and a tender crumb
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Savory crab filling enhanced with herbs, seasoning, and cream cheese
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Finished with a bright, tangy lemon butter glaze
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Great for entertaining, holidays, or seafood nights
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No special equipment needed—just a bowl and baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Biscuits
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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¾ cup cold buttermilk
For the Crab Filling
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6 oz lump crab meat, drained and picked over
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2 tbsp softened cream cheese
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1 tbsp mayonnaise
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1 tbsp finely chopped green onion
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
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1 tsp lemon juice
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Butter Glaze
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3 tbsp melted unsalted butter
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1 tsp lemon zest
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1 tsp lemon juice
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½ tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp chopped parsley (optional)
Directions
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Yields: 10–12 stuffed biscuits
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, mix the crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onion, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne (if using).
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Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
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Add the cold buttermilk and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
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Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten slightly, place 1 tablespoon of crab filling in the center, top with another scoop of dough, and pinch the edges to seal.
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Arrange the stuffed biscuits on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown on top.
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While the biscuits bake, stir together melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, and parsley.
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As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush them generously with the lemon butter. Serve warm.
Serving Ideas
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Serve as an appetizer with lemon wedges
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Pair with a bowl of creamy tomato or corn chowder
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Offer alongside grilled seafood or salad for a light meal
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Great addition to a brunch or buffet spread
Tips & Variations
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Make ahead: Prepare the crab filling in advance and refrigerate until ready to use
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No buttermilk? Substitute with ¾ cup milk mixed with 2 tsp lemon juice or vinegar
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Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne to the crab filling
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Use imitation crab if fresh lump crab isn’t available
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these biscuits?
Yes. Let them cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can be used for variety.
Do I have to stuff the biscuits?
You can make them unstuffed and serve the crab mixture as a dip on the side, though stuffing gives the best flavor combination.
Can I use canned crab?
Yes, just make sure to drain and pick through it for shells before using.
Final Thoughts
These Crab-Stuffed Cheddar Bay Biscuits with Tangy Lemon Butter are rich, flavorful, and full of coastal flair. Whether you’re making them for guests or just treating yourself, they’ll quickly become a favorite savory indulgence worth repeating.