Chef Mitchell preparing Baked Seafood Butter Bites
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Baked Seafood Butter Bites during a family gathering at the beach. My grandmother, an avid seafood lover, would always whip up her special seafood recipes. After perfecting this dish over the years, I’m proud to share my version that combines rich flavors and a comforting texture. It's now a staple at my dinner parties and brings everyone together."

With a passion for American cuisine, Chef Mitchell has dedicated over a decade to perfecting dinner recipes that resonate with home cooks. His extensive experience in seafood preparation has made him a go-to expert for delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that everyone will love.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Baked Seafood Butter Bites served on a plate

Why This Baked Seafood Butter Bites Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its unique combination of fresh seafood and buttery richness. The use of crab and shrimp provides a delightful texture, while the addition of spices elevates the flavor profile. Every bite is packed with savory goodness, making it an instant favorite among seafood enthusiasts.

The technique of baking ensures that the bites are not only delicious but also healthier compared to frying. This method retains the moisture of the seafood while achieving a crispy exterior. The result is a satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own.

💡 Professional Tip

To enhance the flavor of your Baked Seafood Butter Bites, consider adding a little lemon zest or hot sauce to the mixture. This will give a refreshing brightness and a bit of heat that complements the seafood beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just shape the bites, cover them, and bake them when you're ready to serve. This is a great time-saver for parties or busy weeknights.

If you don't have crab meat, you can use more shrimp, lobster, or even fish like salmon or cod. Just ensure that any substitute is cooked and flaked properly before mixing into the recipe.

Baked Seafood Butter Bites are done when they turn golden brown on the outside and the seafood is cooked through. You can use a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked Baked Seafood Butter Bites. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

These bites pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a tangy dipping sauce like remoulade or a zesty cocktail sauce to complement the seafood flavors.

Baked Seafood Butter Bites will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Just reheat them gently in the oven or microwave to enjoy.

Absolutely! You can prepare the seafood mixture and form the bites ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge or freezer until you are ready to bake. This way, you can enjoy fresh bites with minimal effort when it’s time to serve.

The best way to reheat Baked Seafood Butter Bites is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispy texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If your Baked Seafood Butter Bites are too dry, it can detract from the overall flavor and texture.

Solution: To avoid dryness, ensure that you don't overbake them and consider adding a bit more butter or moisture to the mixture. You can also serve them with a sauce to enhance moisture.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes, the bites may not achieve the desired crispiness.

Solution: For crispier bites, make sure to space them out on the baking tray, so they can bake evenly. You can also broil them for the last few minutes of baking to get a nice golden crust.

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Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked seafood bites can become tough and unpalatable.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a timer and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested bake time. Remove them as soon as they're golden brown.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the bites is undercooked, it can be a food safety issue.

Recovery: To remedy this, return them to the oven for a few additional minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.

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Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of your bites is burnt, it can ruin the experience.

Prevention: Lower the oven temperature slightly and check for doneness earlier. Covering them with foil halfway through baking can prevent burning.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your Baked Seafood Butter Bites are too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavor.

Too Salty: For bites that are too salty, serve them with a dairy-based sauce like sour cream or yogurt to balance the flavors.

Bland: If they taste bland, consider adding more spices or a hotter sauce to the mixture before baking.

Fresh ingredients for Baked Seafood Butter Bites

Essential Ingredients for Baked Seafood Butter Bites

The key ingredients in this recipe include shrimp and crab meat, which provide a unique flavor profile and texture. Butter adds richness, while breadcrumbs help bind everything together for a delightful bite-sized treat.

Using high-quality seafood is crucial for the best flavor. Fresh, sustainable seafood will elevate this dish and make a significant difference in the overall taste. Always check labels and source your ingredients responsibly.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp if possible, as they provide a better texture and flavor. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for a hassle-free cooking experience.
  • Crab Meat: Choose lump crab meat for its sweet flavor and superior texture. If using canned crab, look for brands that offer high-quality, sustainably sourced options.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture and flavor absorption. You can make your own by processing day-old bread or choose panko for extra crunch.
Cooking process for Baked Seafood Butter Bites

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Baked Seafood Butter Bites is straightforward. Start by mixing all your ingredients, then shape them into bites. Baking allows for even cooking and helps to retain the flavors of the seafood.

To achieve perfect results, ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and use fresh ingredients. Adjusting cooking time based on the size of your bites will also help create a consistent result.

Key Technique for Perfect Baked Seafood Butter Bites

The key to perfect Baked Seafood Butter Bites is in the blending of the ingredients. Over-mixing can make them tough, while just enough mixing ensures they hold together without losing their delicate textures.

Baked Seafood Butter Bites

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
    Optional
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb crab meat, cooked and shredded
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Mix Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, butter, garlic, green onions, paprika, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.

  3. Prepare Baking Tray

    Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  4. Form Bites

    With your hands, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties and place them on the prepared baking tray.

  5. Top with Mozzarella

    Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each seafood bite.

  6. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

  7. Garnish

    Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley.

  8. Serve

    Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with dipping sauce or as is!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Baked Seafood Butter Bites, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you need to freeze them, ensure they're well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Seafood Butter Bites with a side of fresh lemon wedges and a tangy dipping sauce. They also pair well with a light salad or vegetable platter for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

For a twist, try adding different seafood like scallops or tilapia. You can also experiment with spices, adding a kick with chili flakes or using different herbs for added flavor.