Crispy Crab Rangoon: The Perfect Creamy and Crunchy Appetizer

If you’ve ever ordered takeout from a Chinese restaurant, chances are you’ve come across Crab Rangoon—those crispy, golden wontons filled with a creamy, savory crab and cream cheese mixture. They’re crunchy on the outside, rich and cheesy on the inside, and downright addictive!

Making them at home is easier than you think, and the results are even better than takeout. Whether you’re preparing them as a snack, party appetizer, or side dish for an Asian-inspired meal, these homemade Crab Rangoons will be a hit every time.


Why This Recipe Works

  • Crunchy yet creamy – A crispy wonton shell with a smooth, savory filling.
  • Quick & easy – Simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Better than takeout – Fresh flavors, no preservatives, and fully customizable.
  • Perfect party food – These little bites disappear fast at gatherings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4-6 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 5 mins | Total Time: 20 mins)

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup crab meat, finely chopped (fresh, canned, or imitation)
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon soy sauce
  • 20 wonton wrappers
  • 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

How to Make Crab Rangoon

1. Make the Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, crab meat, green onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and soy sauce.
  • Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

2. Assemble the Wontons

  • Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface.
  • Place 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.
  • Brush the edges with the beaten egg to help seal.
  • Fold the wrappers into a triangle or pinch the corners together to form a classic rangoon shape. Make sure they are sealed tightly to prevent leaks.

3. Heat the Oil

  • In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
  • To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of wonton wrapper into the oil—it should sizzle and float.

4. Fry Until Golden

  • Carefully drop a few wontons at a time into the hot oil.
  • Fry for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.

5. Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve hot with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or sweet & sour sauce for dipping.

Pro Tips & Variations

🔹 Baking Option – If you prefer a lighter version, brush the rangoons with oil and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

🔹 Air Fryer Method – Spray with cooking oil and air-fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

🔹 Make It Spicier – Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the filling for a little heat.

🔹 Use Fresh Crab – For a more authentic taste, use fresh lump crab meat instead of imitation.

🔹 Want More Flavor? – Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a bit of sesame oil to the filling.


What to Serve with Crab Rangoon

These crispy wontons pair beautifully with:

  • Sweet & Sour Sauce – The perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
  • Soy Sauce or Ponzu – A salty, umami contrast to the creamy filling.
  • Hot Mustard – For a spicy kick.
  • Fried Rice or Lo Mein – Turn them into a full meal!
  • Egg Rolls or Dumplings – Serve with other Asian-inspired appetizers.

FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)

Q: Can I make Crab Rangoon ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble them, place on a tray, and freeze before frying. When ready, fry straight from frozen—just add an extra minute to the cook time.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

Q: Can I use a different wrapper?
A: If you can’t find wonton wrappers, spring roll wrappers or egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares will work too.

Q: Do I have to fry them?
A: No! You can bake or air-fry them for a healthier version, and they’ll still be crispy and delicious.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crab Rangoon are the ultimate crispy, creamy, and flavorful appetizer that’s so easy to make at home. With a golden, crunchy shell and a rich, cheesy filling, they’re better than takeout and perfect for any occasion.

Try this recipe and let me know how they turn out—I bet you won’t be able to eat just one!

Crispy Crab Rangoon: The Perfect Creamy and Crunchy Appetizer

Crispy Crab Rangoon: The Perfect Creamy and Crunchy Appetizer

If you’ve ever ordered takeout from a Chinese restaurant, chances are you’ve come across Crab Rangoon—those crispy, golden wontons filled with a creamy, savory crab and cream cheese mixture. They’re crunchy on the outside, rich and cheesy on the inside, and downright addictive!
By Jason GriffithPublished on March 4, 2025
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time5 min
Total Time20 min
Servings4-6 servings
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup crab meat (cooked and shredded)
  • 20-24 wonton wrappers
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and crab meat. Mix until well combined.
  2. Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place about 1 teaspoon of the crab mixture in the center of each wrapper.
  3. Moisten the edges of the wonton wrappers with water and fold them over to create a triangle, pressing the edges to seal tightly.
  4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the wontons in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve hot with sweet and sour sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Information

@type: NutritionInformation
Calories: 150 calories
Protein Content: 5g
Carbohydrate Content: 10g
Fat Content: 10g
Tags: crab rangoon, appetizer, Chinese food, fried wontons, cream cheese