Mediterranean Cheesy Shrimp-Crab Bombs
Mediterranean Cheesy Shrimp-Crab Bombs are the kind of appetizer that instantly draws attention to the table. Crisp on the outside and rich, creamy, and seafood-packed on the inside, they combine coastal Mediterranean flavors with indulgent comfort food appeal. These bite-sized bombs are perfect for parties, holiday spreads, game nights, or special family dinners. Shrimp and crab are folded into a cheesy, herb-infused filling, then wrapped and baked or air-fried until golden. They feel luxurious without being complicated and are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 16 to 18 bombs
Ingredients
Seafood Filling
225 g (8 oz) cooked shrimp, finely chopped
170 g (6 oz) lump crab meat, picked over
120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Outer Layer
1 can refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough, cut into squares
2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
Stir in olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Gently fold in chopped shrimp and crab meat without breaking the crab too much.
Cut dough into equal squares and flatten each piece slightly.
Place a spoonful of seafood filling in the center of each dough square.
Pull the edges together and pinch tightly to form a sealed ball.
Arrange seam-side down on the prepared baking tray.
Brush with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan and herbs.
Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
Tips
Use well-drained seafood to avoid a watery filling.
Chop shrimp finely so each bite has balanced texture.
Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly with other ingredients.
Do not overfill the dough or sealing becomes difficult.
Pinch seams tightly to prevent leaks during baking.
A light brush of oil helps achieve an even golden crust.
Bake on the middle rack for consistent browning.
Let bombs rest for 3 minutes before serving to set the filling.
Taste the filling before assembling and adjust seasoning.
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Variations
Greek Style: Add crumbled feta and chopped olives to the filling.
Spicy Mediterranean: Mix in chili flakes or harissa paste.
Garlic Butter Finish: Brush with garlic butter after baking.
Air Fryer Version: Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 8 to 10 minutes.
Low-Carb Option: Skip dough and bake filling in mini muffin cups.
Herb Explosion: Add dill, basil, and oregano for layered flavor.
Cheddar Blend: Replace half the mozzarella with sharp cheddar.
Puff Pastry Bombs: Use puff pastry for extra flakiness.
Lemon Dill Shrimp Bombs: Use shrimp only with extra dill and lemon.
Seafood Deluxe: Add finely chopped scallops to the filling.
Q&A
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can they be frozen?
Freeze unbaked bombs and bake from frozen with extra time.
What dipping sauces work best?
Garlic aioli, lemon yogurt sauce, or marinara all pair well.
Can I use canned crab?
Yes, but drain it thoroughly for best results.
Do these travel well?
They travel well when kept warm in a covered container.
Can I pan-fry them?
Baking or air frying is recommended for even cooking.
Are they very rich?
They are rich but balanced by citrus and herbs.
Can kids eat these?
Yes, reduce spices for a milder version.
What dough works best?
Biscuit dough is soft, while pizza dough is chewier.
How long do leftovers last?
Store refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Bomb)
Calories: 120–140
Protein: 7–9 g
Carbohydrates: 9–11 g
Fat: 7–9 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Values vary depending on dough and cheese used.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Cheesy Shrimp-Crab Bombs bring together everything people love in a party bite. Crisp dough, creamy cheese, tender seafood, and bright Mediterranean seasoning create an appetizer that feels special yet approachable. Whether served at a festive gathering or as a fun dinner starter, these bombs deliver bold flavor, crowd appeal, and a recipe guests will ask for long after the last one is gone.