How to Make the Famous Mr. and Mrs. Crab Sauce

Mr. and Mrs Crab sauce has taken TikTok by storm lately, with numerous videos showing how to make this delicious seafood sauce. This chunky, spicy sauce features tender crab meat in a flavorful tomato-based broth. It can transform plain rice, pasta or dipping bread into something extraordinary

In this article, I’ll explain how to make authentic Mr. and Mrs. Crab sauce step-by-step, using tips from popular TikTokers and a recipe from Chef’s Resource. I’ve also included some common FAQs about making this viral sauce sensation. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Mr. and Mrs. Crab sauce has a short ingredient list, but quality ingredients are key. You’ll need:

• Fresh crab meat or whole crabs
• Onions
• Garlic
• Tomatoes
• Bell peppers
• Herbs like thyme, parsley and bay leaves
• Hot sauce or chili flakes (optional)
• Vegetable or olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Make sure to use fresh, high-quality crabs for the best flavor. You can also substitute canned crab meat if needed. Pick complementary herbs and adjust spice levels to your taste.

Step 2: Prep the Crabs

If using whole crabs, start by removing the top shell and inedible parts like gills. Rinse thoroughly Cut into smaller pieces for easier cooking. If you bought canned crab meat or pre-cooked lump crab, you can skip this step

Pro Tip: Save any juices from canned crab to add extra flavor to the sauce later!

Step 3: Cook the Crabs

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the crab pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes, just to lightly brown. Don’t overcook! Remove crab from pot and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until soft, about 5 minutes. Then add chopped tomatoes and simmer until sauce-like consistency is reached, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Spices

Next, stir in bay leaves, thyme, parsley, and any other herbs you’re using. Add hot sauce, chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you want some heat.

Pro Tip: Add hot sauce at the end instead to better control the spice level.

Step 6: Simmer the Crab

Return crab to the pot along with any reserved crab juice. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes so flavors infuse the crab.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, more herbs or hot sauce to get the flavors just right.

Serve crab sauce over rice, pasta or with crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with extra parsley or hot pepper flakes. Enjoy this viral seafood sensation!

Variations and Substitutions

While the basic recipe stays the same, people customize Mr. and Mrs. Crab sauce in different ways:

• Use shrimp instead of crab for a lighter option
• Add diced carrots, celery or red bell peppers
• Swap out tomato sauce for coconut milk for a creamy version
• Play with different spice blends like Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
• Stir in cream cheese or grated parmesan for extra richness
• Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds or lemon wedges

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Just maintain the basic cooking method and you can create your own signature crab sauce.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Crab Sauce

Use these tips for the best pot of Mr. and Mrs. Crab sauce:

• Cook veggies sufficiently to avoid a raw flavor
• Prevent crab from overcooking and becoming rubbery
• Simmer long enough for flavors to develop fully
• Add cornstarch slurry if you want a thicker sauce
• Adjust spice, salt and acidity until flavors pop
• Finish with fresh herbs and lemon juice to brighten flavors

Taking a little extra care during cooking really pays off in the final dish!

Mr. and Mrs. Crab Sauce FAQs

If you’re new to making this viral TikTok recipe, you probably have some questions. Here are answers to the most common inquiries:

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! Make the sauce up to 3 days ahead. Cool, refrigerate, then reheat before serving.

Is fresh crab required or can I use canned?

Either works fine, but fresh crab has the best flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

For thicker sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry toward the end of cooking.

Can I freeze any leftovers?

You can freeze leftover crab sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.

What are the best ways to serve the sauce?

Serve over rice, pasta, or with bread for dipping. Also great with seafood or chicken.

How long will cooked crab meat keep in the fridge?

Store picked crab meat up to 3 days in a sealed container in the fridge.

What are the best side dishes?

Try crab sauce with classic pairings like buttery mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.

Make This Viral Sensation at Home