Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries

Indulge in crispy Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries loaded with melted cheese and savory crab meat. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for snack time or game day!

If you love the new dish at Red Lobster, the Crabby Cheese Fries, you will love this copycat recipe!

Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries are the ultimate snack or appetizer, combining crispy golden fries with creamy, melted cheese and the savory richness of seasoned crab meat.

This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a decadent treat that’s perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you’re craving comfort food. The air fryer ensures perfectly crispy fries without excess oil, while the cheesy, crab-infused topping adds a gourmet twist.

Garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning, these fries are a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again!

If you love Red Lobster Copycat Recipes, try my recipe for Clam Chowder Red Lobster Recipe, Air Fryer Copycat Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms, or Copycat Red Lobster Coconut Shrimp.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer ensures your fries are golden and crispy without the need for deep frying.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gooey cheese and seasoned crab meat creates an irresistible flavor medley.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These crabby cheese fries are a guaranteed hit, whether served as a snack, appetizer, or game-day treat.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Minimal Cleanup: With the air fryer, you’ll have less mess to clean up compared to traditional frying methods.

Ingredients Needed

• Frozen French Fries: Perfectly crispy fries form the base for this irresistible dish.
• Crab Meat: Fresh or canned crab meat adds a savory and succulent seafood flavor.
• Shredded Cheese: A generous layer of melted cheese ties the flavors together with gooey goodness.
• Old Bay Seasoning: This iconic spice blend gives the dish its signature Chesapeake Bay flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.
• Optional Dipping Sauce: Serve with ranch, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce for added indulgence.

How To Make Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries

Step One: Arrange the frozen French fries in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400 degrees F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step Two: Once the fries are cooked, spread the crab meat evenly over the fries.

Step Three: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top of the crab meat and fries.

Step Four: Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning over the entire dish for that signature crabby flavor.

Step Five: Place the loaded fries back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce if desired!

Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh or Canned Crab Meat: Fresh lump crab meat provides the best flavor, but canned or refrigerated crab works well as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly.
• Cheese Matters: Use a cheese that melts well, like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend. For extra flavor, try adding some shredded Parmesan.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For perfectly crispy fries, air fry them in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Customize the Seasoning: Old Bay seasoning is a must for that classic crab flavor, but you can add garlic powder, cayenne, or smoked paprika for extra zing.
• Serve Immediately: These fries taste best fresh out of the air fryer, while the cheese is still gooey and the fries are crispy.
• Garnish for Extra Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds a burst of color and freshness. You can also drizzle with a little melted butter mixed with lemon juice for a luxurious touch.
• Dipping Sauce Ideas: Serve with ranch dressing, aioli, or even a side of cocktail sauce to complement the crab.

Storing

• Storing: Store any leftover Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to allow them to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain their crispiness.
• Freezing: To freeze, spread the assembled fries (without the cheese) on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to use, cook from frozen in the air fryer, adding cheese and crab meat after the fries are heated through.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Add a sprinkle of cheese and crab meat after reheating, if needed, and warm for an additional minute or two.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries

Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries are a deliciously indulgent dish, so pairing them with lighter sides can help balance out the richness. A crisp side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the fries’ savory flavors, while coleslaw adds a crunchy, creamy contrast. Grilled vegetables like zucchini or asparagus offer a healthful balance, and a side of garlic bread can satisfy those craving extra carbs. For a touch of brightness, serve the fries with lemon wedges to cut through the richness and add a refreshing zest.

Air Fryer Crabby Cheese Fries Recipe Faqs

Can I use fresh crab meat instead of canned? Yes, fresh crab meat can be used as a substitute for canned crab. Just make sure to remove any shells before adding it to the fries.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! While cheddar is a popular choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavors.

How can I make these fries spicier? Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the crab meat before layering it on the fries for a spicy kick.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the fries and crab meat separately and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply heat the fries in the air fryer and top with crab and cheese.

What kind of fries should I use? You can use any type of frozen French fries you like, such as crinkle cut, shoestring, or waffle fries, depending on your preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can replace the crab meat with a vegetarian protein like tofu or even a plant-based seafood alternative for a meatless version.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning? Keep an eye on the fries during the final stages of cooking, and reduce the air fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C) if needed to melt the cheese without burning it.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

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• AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI FRITTER
• EASY AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI CHEDDAR SAVORY MUFFINS
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