Name: Crispy Crab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz chopped imitation crab meat; 8 oz cream cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 stalks green onion, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 clove garlic, minced or 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp sugar; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp water; 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp soy sauce

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Introduction

Crispy Crab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful snack that combines creamy crab filling with gooey mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy crust. Perfect as an appetizer or party treat, these sticks are easy to make and irresistibly tasty.

A close-up of a golden brown fried ball being held by a woman's hand, showing its inside filled with creamy white cheese mixed with small bits of red and green vegetables; the outside is crispy and crunchy with a rough breadcrumb texture, and in the blurred background, more of the same fried balls rest on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz chopped imitation crab meat
8 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 stalks green onion, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp onion powder
1 clove garlic, minced or powder
1 tsp sugar
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 large egg
2 tbsp water
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chopped imitation crab meat, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, green onion, parsley, onion powder, garlic, and sugar. Mix well until smooth and evenly blended.
Step 2: Spread the filling evenly on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Freeze for at least 2 hours until firm to help maintain shape during cooking.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, and soy sauce. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4: Prepare the breading station: season panko breadcrumbs with salt and pepper in one bowl, and whisk the egg with water in another.
Step 5: Remove the filling from the freezer and cut into sticks. Dip each stick first in the egg wash, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating.
Step 6: For deep frying: Heat oil to 350°F and fry sticks in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F, lightly spray sticks with oil, and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Step 8: Serve hot with the prepared sweet chili dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

Chill the filling thoroughly before cutting and breading to help the sticks keep their shape.
Double-dip the sticks in egg wash and breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust.
Swap imitation crab for chopped shrimp for a fresh seafood twist.
Use sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a bolder flavor.
Add diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.
Mix in sour cream or Greek yogurt for even creamier filling texture.
Try different dipping sauces like teriyaki or wasabi mayo for variety.

Storage

Store leftover Crab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them crispy. To freeze, place unbattered sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen by air frying at 375°F for 8-10 minutes or deep frying for 4-5 minutes until heated through and crispy.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a golden-brown crispy fried ball that is split open to reveal a creamy inside with white melted cheese, small pieces of green herbs, and red bits that look like diced peppers or tomatoes. The outer layer is crunchy and coarse, while the inside looks soft, gooey, and slightly stringy with melted cheese stretching out. In the foreground, a woman's hand is holding the fried ball, with more similar fried balls blurred in the background on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What kind of crab should I use for the filling?

Chopped imitation crab meat is recommended for a savory seafood flavor and texture. You can use real crab meat for a premium version, but it may need extra seasoning to enhance the taste.

How should I store my leftover Crab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain crispiness. Reheat them in an air fryer to regain their golden texture and crunch.