Baked Maryland-Style Crab Balls

Ingredients

• 1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for rolling if desired)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil or butter.

2. Mix the Binding Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

3. Add Crumbs and Crab: Gently fold in the panko breadcrumbs and the lump crab meat, taking care not to break up the large lumps of crab too much.

4. Form the Balls: Scoop the mixture and gently shape it into round balls (about the size of golf balls or slightly larger) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Add Butter: Drizzle or brush the melted butter lightly over the top of each crab ball to help them brown nicely in the oven.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown, slightly crisp, and heated all the way through.

7. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.