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Air Fryer Soft Shell Crab - Crispy, Fast, and Full of Flavor

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 soft shell crabs, cleaned (ask your fishmonger to clean them if needed)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to finish
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water
  • Neutral oil spray (avocado or canola)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Optional: buns, tartar sauce or spicy mayo, shredded lettuce, pickles

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. A hot basket helps crisp the coating.
  2. Prep the crabs: Pat the soft shell crabs very dry with paper towels. Excess moisture prevents crisping.
  3. Mix the dry coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, Old Bay, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Whisk the egg wash: In a separate bowl, beat eggs with milk or water until smooth.
  5. Dredge the crabs: Dip each crab in the egg wash, then press into the flour mixture to coat both sides. Shake off any excess.
  6. Oil lightly: Spray both sides of the coated crabs with neutral oil. This helps the coating brown and crisp.
  7. Arrange in the basket: Place the crabs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave a little space between them. Work in batches if needed.
  8. Air fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray lightly again after flipping. They’re done when golden, crisp, and cooked through.
  9. Season and rest: Transfer to a wire rack or plate and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let rest 2 minutes so the crust sets.
  10. Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon over the top. Enjoy as-is, or build a sandwich with tartar sauce or spicy mayo and lettuce.