How Many Calories Are in a Stuffed Crab?

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutrition data, a generic stuffed crab or Crab Imperial contains approximately 289 calories per serving. However, the exact number of calories in a stuffed crab can vary dramatically based on the preparation method, ingredients, and portion size.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a stuffed crab can range significantly, typically falling between 150 and 400+ calories per serving, depending on the stuffing's ingredients. Key factors include the use of high-fat binders like mayonnaise, the amount of breadcrumbs, and whether the crab is baked or fried. Making mindful ingredient choices can produce a much lighter, healthier dish.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: The number of calories in a stuffed crab can range significantly, typically from 150 to over 400, depending on ingredients and cooking method.
Binder is Key: High-fat binders like mayonnaise and butter dramatically increase the calorie count, while alternatives like Greek yogurt can significantly reduce it.
Baking vs. Frying: The cooking method plays a major role; deep-frying adds substantial calories from absorbed oil, whereas baking is a much healthier option.
Portion Size Matters: Calorie estimates are for a single serving, but serving sizes can vary. Always consider the portion size when evaluating nutritional intake.
Control with Homemade: Preparing stuffed crab at home allows for total control over ingredients and cooking methods, enabling you to create a much lighter and healthier version.

Deconstructing the Stuffed Crab Calorie Count

Determining the precise number of calories in a stuffed crab is challenging because recipes and preparation methods vary widely. A basic stuffed crab shell, often called 'deviled crab' or 'crab imperial,' generally contains crab meat mixed with a binder and seasonings, then baked or fried. The crab meat itself is relatively low in calories, with a 1-cup serving of cooked crab providing about 112 calories. The bulk of the calories come from the stuffing ingredients and cooking method.

Factors That Influence Calorie Count

Binder: High-fat binders are a primary source of calories. Recipes using a significant amount of mayonnaise, butter, or full-fat cream cheese will have a much higher calorie count than those using lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt or low-fat mayonnaise.
Fillers: The type and quantity of fillers are crucial. Excess breadcrumbs, especially when soaked in butter, add carbohydrates and calories. Some recipes even include potatoes or rice, further increasing the caloric density. Lighter versions might use fewer breadcrumbs or a whole-wheat alternative.
Cooking Method: Baking or air-frying a stuffed crab is significantly healthier than deep-frying. Deep-frying the stuffed crab, as seen in some traditional preparations, can add hundreds of calories from the oil absorbed during cooking.
Portion Size: The serving size can differ greatly, from small appetizer shells to large main-course portions. The calorie count of 289 for a Crab Imperial is based on a serving of 194g, while a different commercial product may be smaller.
Added Ingredients: Extra ingredients like cheese, heavy cream, or sausage in Cajun-style recipes can substantially increase the calorie, fat, and sodium content.

Nutritional Comparison: Stuffed Crab vs. Alternatives

This comparison highlights how different preparation styles and similar seafood dishes stack up nutritionally. The data below is based on general estimates and can vary by specific recipe.


Feature	Generic Stuffed Crab (e.g., Crab Imperial)	Homemade Lighter Stuffed Crab	Generic Crab Cake	Grilled Crab Meat (Plain)
Calories	~289 kcal	~150-200 kcal	~160-200+ kcal	~112 kcal
Fat	~15g	~5-10g	~8-12g	<1g
Carbohydrates	~6g	~10-15g	~10-15g	0g
Protein	~30g	~20-25g	~15-20g	~24g
Preparation	Often baked with rich binder	Baked, uses low-fat binder	Pan-fried or baked	Grilled, pan-seared
Key Difference	High in fat from mayo/butter	Uses low-fat dairy or less fat	May be pan-fried, but binder often less fatty	No added fat, seasoning only

A Simple Recipe for a Healthier Stuffed Crab

For those who want to reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor, a lighter recipe is the best approach. Here is an example of how you can create a healthier version at home:

Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crabmeat
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs, plus 1 tbsp for topping
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6-8 cleaned crab shells or ramekins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange crab shells on a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, bell pepper, parsley, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Gently fold in the crabmeat and 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, being careful not to break up the crab lumps. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the mixture into the crab shells. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tbsp of breadcrumbs on top of each shell.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is heated through.

The Takeaway

When evaluating how many calories are in a stuffed crab, the recipe is everything. A commercial, deep-fried stuffed crab with a heavy mayonnaise-based filling could exceed 400 calories, while a homemade, baked version using lighter ingredients might be around 150 calories. It is vital to consider the ingredients, preparation method, and serving size to get an accurate estimate. Opting for homemade versions with low-fat binders and baking rather than frying is the most effective way to enjoy this dish while controlling your calorie intake. For more detailed information on nutrition, including cooking methods and ingredient swaps, resources from health and nutrition experts can be helpful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the caloric content of a stuffed crab is highly dependent on its specific preparation. While some varieties can be calorie-dense due to heavy binders and deep-frying, others are relatively light and healthy. Crab meat itself is a lean protein source, and by making informed choices about the ingredients and cooking process, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious stuffed crab. Homemade versions, using lighter binders and healthier cooking methods like baking, provide the greatest control over the final nutritional profile, making them an excellent option for health-conscious diners. Don't let a generic calorie count deter you; stuffed crab can be a part of a balanced diet with a few simple modifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

The healthiness of a stuffed crab depends on its preparation. The crab meat itself is lean and nutritious. However, the use of high-fat binders like mayonnaise and deep-frying can make it unhealthy. Opting for baked versions with lighter binders is a healthier choice.

Store-bought or generic stuffed crabs can range widely in calories, but many are on the higher end, often between 250 and 400+ calories, due to commercial recipes that may use more fat and frying methods.

To make a low-calorie stuffed crab, use a low-fat binder like Greek yogurt, whole-wheat breadcrumbs instead of white, and bake it instead of frying. You can also add more vegetables for volume and nutrients.

The calories can be similar, but vary by recipe. A generic stuffed crab and a crab cake can both contain binders and fillers. Baked versions of both are generally lower in calories than their fried counterparts.

Crab meat is rich in protein and contains high levels of essential nutrients like Vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and selenium, which contribute to heart and brain health.

Deviled crab is a type of stuffed crab. It traditionally features crab meat seasoned with spices, often including mustard and hot sauce, mixed with a binder and baked back into the crab shell. It is one of many preparations for stuffed crab.

Great low-calorie substitutes for mayonnaise include plain Greek yogurt, low-fat cream cheese, or a mixture of lemon juice and a small amount of olive oil.