27 Delicious Fall Crab Meat Recipes You Need to Try

Fall is the perfect time to embrace hearty, comforting dishes that highlight the season’s rich flavors.

One ingredient that pairs beautifully with autumn produce is crab meat.

Its delicate sweetness and tender texture lend themselves perfectly to both savory and slightly sweet recipes.

From creamy soups and chowders to elegant tarts, pasta, and festive salads, crab meat can transform simple dishes into seasonal delights.

Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner party, planning a cozy family meal, or looking for a unique appetizer, these 27 fall crab meat recipes bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of sophistication to your table.

Each recipe incorporates seasonal ingredients such as pumpkin, butternut squash, apples, cranberries, and roasted vegetables, offering a balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic tastes that celebrate the best of fall.

27 Delicious Fall Crab Meat Recipes You Need to Try

Crab meat is a surprisingly versatile ingredient that shines in fall-inspired dishes.

From creamy chowders to vibrant salads, rustic tarts, and comforting casseroles, these 27 fall crab meat recipes provide countless ways to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, enjoy a cozy dinner at home, or explore new seasonal combinations, these recipes offer inspiration and delicious results that are bound to become fall favorites.

Embrace the season and elevate your meals with crab meat paired with autumn’s finest flavors—your taste buds will thank you.

Creamy Pumpkin Crab Bisque

This creamy pumpkin crab bisque blends the sweetness of crab meat with the earthy richness of pumpkin, making it a comforting and luxurious soup for chilly autumn evenings.

The subtle spices warm the palate, while a splash of cream gives it a velvety finish.

Perfect as a starter for a fall dinner party or a cozy meal with crusty bread.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
  • 2 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
  • 2 tablespoons dry sherry (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.
  2. Stir in the pumpkin puree and cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen its flavor.
  3. Pour in the seafood stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Add smoked paprika, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the cream and sherry, then gently fold in the crab meat. Cook on low for another 5–7 minutes, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
  6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley or chives.

This pumpkin crab bisque combines the best of autumn produce and ocean flavors, creating a warming and elegant dish that feels festive yet deeply comforting.

Apple Cider Crab Cakes with Maple Dijon Sauce

These fall-inspired crab cakes take the classic coastal favorite and infuse it with seasonal flavors.

The addition of apple cider gives a subtle sweetness, while the maple Dijon sauce ties everything together with a tangy and rich autumn flair.

Perfect as an appetizer or light dinner.

Ingredients:
For the crab cakes:

  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the maple Dijon sauce:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider, shallot, Old Bay, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form into patties, about 3 inches wide. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to help them hold together.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry crab cakes for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
  4. While crab cakes cook, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl to create the sauce.
  5. Serve crab cakes hot with a dollop of the maple Dijon sauce.

These apple cider crab cakes bring a festive fall twist to a beloved seafood classic, making them a standout dish for seasonal gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Butternut Squash and Crab Stuffed Shells

This hearty fall recipe pairs tender jumbo pasta shells with a rich butternut squash cream sauce and sweet crab meat.

The combination is baked until bubbly, offering a comforting, elegant dish that’s perfect for autumn family meals or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients:

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cups butternut squash, cubed
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix crab meat, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, sage, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté onion until softened. Add butternut squash and broth, simmer until squash is tender.
  4. Transfer mixture to a blender, blend until smooth. Return to the pan, stir in cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and Parmesan. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish.
  6. Fill each pasta shell with the crab and ricotta mixture, then place in the baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over the shells.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

Butternut squash and crab stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort dish for autumn, balancing rich, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite while bringing warmth to your seasonal table.

Cranberry Crab Salad with Walnuts

This refreshing yet hearty fall salad combines the delicate sweetness of crab meat with the tart pop of cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and crisp greens.

Tossed in a light maple vinaigrette, it’s a festive salad that works beautifully as a starter or light lunch during autumn months.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
  • 1 crisp apple, thinly sliced
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

For the maple vinaigrette:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine greens, cranberries, walnuts, apple slices, and red onion.
  2. Gently fold in the crab meat, keeping the lumps intact as much as possible.
  3. In a small jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake well until emulsified.
  4. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad and toss lightly.
  5. Serve immediately as a fresh and seasonal starter.

Cranberry crab salad with walnuts brings together sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a colorful and vibrant dish that celebrates fall’s bounty.

Roasted Sweet Potato Crab Hash

This savory hash combines roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized onions, and tender crab meat for a rustic and filling autumn dish.

With hints of sage and thyme, it works perfectly as a hearty brunch or a cozy dinner, especially when topped with a fried egg.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: fried eggs for topping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender.
  2. In a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil and sauté onion until caramelized. Add red bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in roasted sweet potatoes, sage, thyme, and crab meat. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve hot, optionally topped with a fried egg for extra richness.

This roasted sweet potato crab hash is hearty, wholesome, and layered with autumn flavors, making it an ideal one-pan meal for fall mornings or cozy weeknights.

Harvest Corn and Crab Chowder

Nothing says fall like a steaming bowl of chowder, and this version highlights tender crab meat with the sweetness of late-harvest corn.

Creamy, comforting, and lightly spiced, it’s a soul-warming dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups seafood or chicken stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Stir in corn and potatoes, then pour in the stock. Bring to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  3. Stir in cream, smoked paprika, and thyme. Let simmer on low for 5 minutes.
  4. Add crab meat and gently heat through for another 3–4 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper, then ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley.

Harvest corn and crab chowder is a cozy fall classic, combining creamy textures and sweet, savory flavors into a dish that feels like a warm embrace on chilly evenings.

Sage Butter Crab Gnocchi

This indulgent pasta dish pairs pillowy gnocchi with sweet crab meat and a sage-infused brown butter sauce.

The earthy flavor of sage and nutty butter perfectly balance the delicate seafood, creating a comforting fall-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 8–10 fresh sage leaves
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon zest for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it begins to brown slightly. Add sage leaves and let them crisp in the butter.
  3. Stir in the gnocchi and sauté until lightly golden.
  4. Gently fold in crab meat and Parmesan, tossing to coat.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper, garnish with lemon zest, and serve immediately.

Sage butter crab gnocchi is a decadent fall comfort dish that highlights the richness of butter, the fragrance of sage, and the sweetness of crab in every bite.

Roasted Pumpkin and Crab Risotto

This creamy risotto showcases roasted pumpkin and sweet crab meat in a luxurious, savory dish.

Finished with Parmesan and a hint of nutmeg, it’s an elegant way to enjoy the flavors of fall.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cups chicken or seafood stock, warmed
  • 1 cup roasted pumpkin, mashed
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion until softened.
  2. Stir in Arborio rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Deglaze with white wine, stirring until absorbed.
  4. Gradually add warm stock, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until rice is creamy and tender.
  5. Stir in roasted pumpkin, Parmesan, nutmeg, and crab meat. Cook for 2 more minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.

This roasted pumpkin and crab risotto is a rich, warming dish that blends seasonal fall produce with the luxurious taste of the sea.

Autumn Crab Flatbread with Caramelized Onions

This flatbread combines savory caramelized onions, roasted squash, melty cheese, and sweet crab meat.

Baked until golden and crisp, it makes a perfect appetizer or light dinner for autumn gatherings.

Ingredients:

  • 2 flatbreads or naan
  • 1 cup butternut squash, roasted and diced
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced and caramelized
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup goat cheese crumbles
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • Fresh arugula for topping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place flatbreads on a baking sheet.
  2. Layer with caramelized onions, roasted squash, mozzarella, and goat cheese.
  3. Bake for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Remove from oven, top with crab meat and fresh arugula.
  5. Slice and serve warm.

This autumn crab flatbread is a festive, flavorful dish with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh toppings that highlight fall’s harvest.

Spiced Pear and Crab Crostini

These elegant crostini make a perfect appetizer for fall gatherings.

Sweet roasted pears, creamy cheese, and delicate crab meat are layered on toasted bread, finished with a drizzle of honey and a hint of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

  • 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
  • 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced and roasted
  • ½ cup cream cheese or mascarpone
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roast pear slices for 10 minutes until tender.
  2. Spread cream cheese or mascarpone on toasted baguette slices.
  3. Layer with roasted pear slices and spoonfuls of crab meat.
  4. Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with cinnamon, and garnish with thyme.
  5. Serve as a seasonal appetizer.

Spiced pear and crab crostini are a sweet and savory treat that bring sophistication and seasonal flavor to any fall table.

Wild Rice and Crab Stuffed Acorn Squash

This hearty fall dish features roasted acorn squash filled with wild rice, herbs, and sweet crab meat.

It’s a complete seasonal meal, both beautiful to serve and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup cooked wild rice
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon sage
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast cut-side down for 35–40 minutes until tender.
  2. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Stir in wild rice, crab meat, sage, thyme, and Parmesan. Cook until heated through.
  3. Fill roasted squash halves with the crab and rice mixture.
  4. Return to oven for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Serve hot as a festive fall entrée.

Wild rice and crab stuffed acorn squash combines earthy squash, nutty rice, and sweet crab in a dish that feels both rustic and gourmet.

Maple Glazed Crab and Brussels Sprouts Skillet

This one-pan dish pairs caramelized Brussels sprouts with sweet crab meat in a maple glaze.

The result is a balanced, savory-sweet meal that’s simple to prepare yet rich in seasonal flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small shallot, minced
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add Brussels sprouts and cook until caramelized and tender, about 10 minutes.
  2. Stir in shallot and cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. Add maple syrup and soy sauce, tossing to coat.
  4. Gently fold in crab meat and cook for 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

This maple glazed crab and Brussels sprouts skillet is a quick, flavorful dish that highlights fall vegetables and sweet crab in perfect harmony.

Pumpkin Sage Crab Ravioli

This autumn pasta dish combines tender ravioli filled with a pumpkin-crab mixture, served with a sage cream sauce.

It’s rich, aromatic, and perfect for a festive fall dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 package fresh ravioli sheets (or wonton wrappers)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 6–8 fresh sage leaves
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Mix pumpkin puree, crab, ricotta, nutmeg, sage, salt, and pepper for the filling.
  2. Place small spoonfuls of filling on ravioli sheets, cover with another sheet, and seal edges.
  3. In a skillet, melt butter and add sage leaves until fragrant. Stir in cream and Parmesan.
  4. Boil ravioli in salted water until they float.
  5. Toss ravioli in the sage cream sauce and serve immediately.

Pumpkin sage crab ravioli is a seasonal, gourmet dish that beautifully marries sweet pumpkin, delicate crab, and fragrant sage.

Spiced Crab and Apple Soup

This light yet comforting soup balances the sweetness of apples with the savory depth of crab.

A touch of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves makes it perfect for crisp fall evenings.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 apples, peeled and chopped
  • 3 cups chicken or seafood stock
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Melt butter in a pot and sauté onion until soft.
  2. Add apples, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in stock and simmer until apples are tender, about 15 minutes.
  4. Blend soup until smooth, then stir in cream and crab meat.
  5. Heat through, season, and serve warm.

Spiced crab and apple soup is a comforting bowl of autumn flavors, balancing sweet fruit with rich seafood.

Crab and Chestnut Stuffing

A luxurious twist on a holiday classic, this stuffing combines sweet crab meat with earthy roasted chestnuts, herbs, and bread cubes.

It’s an ideal side dish for Thanksgiving or any fall feast.

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups cubed rustic bread
  • 1 cup roasted chestnuts, chopped
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon sage
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, sauté onion and celery in butter until softened.
  3. In a bowl, combine bread, chestnuts, crab, thyme, and sage. Pour sautéed mixture and stock over.
  4. Toss until bread is moist but not soggy.
  5. Bake in a buttered dish for 30 minutes until golden.

Crab and chestnut stuffing is a unique, flavorful side dish that adds coastal flair to a traditional fall menu.

Roasted Beet and Crab Salad

This colorful salad pairs earthy roasted beets with tender crab meat and tangy goat cheese, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

It’s light yet full of autumn richness.

Ingredients:

  • 3 medium beets, roasted and sliced
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ½ cup goat cheese, crumbled
  • ¼ cup walnuts, toasted
  • 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Roast beets in foil at 400°F (200°C) for 40–50 minutes, then peel and slice.
  2. Arrange greens on a plate, top with beets, crab meat, goat cheese, and walnuts.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
  4. Season and serve fresh.

Roasted beet and crab salad is a vibrant, earthy, and elegant dish that celebrates fall’s natural flavors.

Crab and Mushroom Shepherd’s Pie

A seafood twist on a comforting classic, this shepherd’s pie layers sautéed mushrooms, vegetables, and crab beneath creamy mashed potatoes.

It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for fall dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 2 cups mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1½ cups milk
  • 3 cups mashed potatoes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sauté onion, carrots, and mushrooms in butter until tender. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute.
  3. Slowly add milk, cooking until thickened. Stir in crab meat, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour into a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes until golden on top.

Crab and mushroom shepherd’s pie is a cozy, comforting meal that turns a classic into a fall seafood delight.

Autumn Crab Quiche with Spinach and Gruyère

This savory quiche combines crab, spinach, and nutty Gruyère cheese in a flaky crust.

It’s ideal for brunch or a light fall supper, pairing well with a crisp green salad.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, sautéed
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pie crust in a tart pan.
  2. Spread spinach, crab meat, and Gruyère evenly over the crust.
  3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, half-and-half, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour into crust.
  4. Bake for 35–40 minutes until set and golden.
  5. Cool slightly before slicing.

Autumn crab quiche with spinach and Gruyère is a rich, elegant dish that brings warmth and refinement to seasonal meals.

Crab and Roasted Fennel Tart

This savory tart combines sweet crab meat with caramelized fennel and a flaky pastry crust.

It’s a sophisticated fall appetizer or light main course, perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry
  • 1 bulb fennel, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss fennel slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 15–20 minutes until tender.
  2. Roll out puff pastry on a baking sheet. Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
  3. Layer roasted fennel and crab meat over ricotta. Fold edges of pastry slightly inward. Brush with beaten egg.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed.
  5. Garnish with fresh dill and serve warm.

Crab and roasted fennel tart is a stunning, flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of crab and the delicate aroma of fennel, perfect for fall entertaining.

Cornbread Crab Casserole

This hearty casserole layers sweet crab meat with creamy corn and a golden cornbread topping.

It’s warm, comforting, and a wonderful addition to a fall dinner table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup cream or milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, sauté onion in butter until softened. Stir in corn and cream. Remove from heat.
  2. Gently fold in crab meat, salt, and pepper. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, eggs, and a pinch of salt to make cornbread batter. Spread over crab mixture.
  4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until topping is golden and cooked through.
  5. Serve warm as a comforting main or side.

Cornbread crab casserole offers a rustic, cozy dish that combines sweet, creamy, and savory flavors, perfect for fall family dinners.

Curried Crab and Butternut Squash Stew

This flavorful stew pairs sweet crab meat with creamy butternut squash and warming curry spices.

It’s aromatic, hearty, and a perfect way to celebrate autumn produce.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 3 cups butternut squash, cubed
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. Stir in curry powder and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add butternut squash and stock. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until squash is tender.
  4. Stir in crab meat and coconut milk. Heat gently for 5 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve.

Curried crab and butternut squash stew is a warming, flavorful fall dish that combines exotic spices with sweet seasonal produce and delicate seafood.

Crab and Caramelized Onion Flatbread Pizza

This flatbread pizza combines sweet caramelized onions, crab meat, and creamy cheese for a gourmet fall twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 2 flatbreads or pizza bases
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet, cook onions in olive oil over medium heat until caramelized.
  2. Place flatbreads on a baking sheet, top with cheese, caramelized onions, crab meat, and thyme.
  3. Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and crust is crisp.
  4. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Crab and caramelized onion flatbread pizza is a rich, savory dish that balances sweet onions with tender crab, perfect for a cozy fall meal.

Crab and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms make a perfect appetizer for fall entertaining.

The crab filling is creamy, flavorful, and baked until golden.

Ingredients:

  • 20 large mushroom caps
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • ½ cup cream cheese
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove mushroom stems and brush caps with olive oil.
  2. In a bowl, combine crab meat, spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 15–20 minutes until filling is heated through and tops are golden.
  5. Serve warm as an appetizer.

Crab and spinach stuffed mushrooms are elegant, bite-sized treats that highlight crab’s sweetness in a creamy, savory fall appetizer.

Apple and Crab Slaw

This fresh and tangy slaw combines shredded apples, crab meat, and cabbage for a crunchy, autumn-inspired side dish.

It’s a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or grilled seafood.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 2 apples, julienned
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine green and red cabbage, apples, and crab meat.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour dressing over the slaw and toss gently to coat.
  4. Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.

Apple and crab slaw is a crisp, refreshing side that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a perfect fall accompaniment.

Crab and Roasted Pear Galette

This rustic galette combines sweet roasted pears with tender crab meat and creamy cheese in a flaky pastry crust.

It’s an elegant yet simple dish perfect for fall brunches or appetizers.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry
  • 2 ripe pears, sliced
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pear slices with a pinch of salt, pepper, and thyme.
  2. Roll out puff pastry on a baking sheet. Spread ricotta evenly over the center, leaving a 1-inch border.
  3. Layer crab meat and roasted pears on top. Fold edges of pastry inward and brush with egg wash.
  4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and puffed.
  5. Serve warm as a sophisticated fall appetizer.

Crab and roasted pear galette is a beautiful combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, making it a perfect seasonal treat.

Crab and Sweet Potato Chowder

This hearty chowder features sweet potatoes and crab meat simmered in a creamy, spiced broth.

It’s perfect for cozy fall dinners and serves as a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups chicken or seafood stock
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  2. Add sweet potatoes, stock, and smoked paprika. Simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.
  3. Stir in crab meat and cream, heating gently for 5 minutes.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Crab and sweet potato chowder is a rich, comforting fall soup that balances the sweetness of potatoes with the delicate flavor of crab.

Harvest Crab and Quinoa Salad

This nutrient-packed salad combines quinoa, roasted fall vegetables, and sweet crab meat with a light maple vinaigrette.

It’s a refreshing yet hearty fall dish suitable as a side or light main course.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup roasted butternut squash, cubed
  • 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1 pound lump crab meat
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pecans
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20–25 minutes until tender.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, crab meat, cranberries, and pecans.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over salad and toss gently.
  4. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Harvest crab and quinoa salad is a vibrant fall dish, full of seasonal flavors and textures, making it a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty notes.