Shoppers hunting for impressive party appetizers are taking notice of Costco‘s Phillips Crab Cake Bites in the freezer aisle. But at nearly $18 for a single tray, are these bite-sized seafood treats actually worth it?
A recent taste test on Hurrdat ONE’s The Membership Exclusive podcast reveals what you need to know before adding them to your cart.
What Are Phillips Crab Cake Bites?
Found in Costco’s freezer section, Phillips Crab Cake Bites are pre-formed, breaded seafood balls that resemble meatballs. The tray contains approximately 30-40 pieces, each designed as a single-serving appetizer. Phillips Seafood is a well-known East Coast restaurant brand specializing in seafood — the same company behind Costco’s popular lobster bites.
At $17.99 per package, they’re positioned as a premium offering. The price point reflects both the seafood quality and the convenience factor — no prep work required beyond heating them up.
The Taste Test Results
According to Costco experts Josh Baxter and Lindsay Piittmann of The Membership Exclusive podcast, the flavor delivers when served properly. “It’d be better if it’s warm, obviously,” Lindsay noted during the tasting. The consensus? These crab cakes have real potential, especially when prepared fresh from the air fryer or oven.
One critical cooking tip emerged: skip the microwave. While the packaging includes microwave instructions, air frying or baking produces significantly better results. The exterior develops a satisfying crunch while the interior stays moist and flavorful.
Josh, who had previously tried Phillips crab cakes at their East Coast restaurant locations, confirmed the Costco version captures similar quality — though serving temperature matters significantly.
Ideal for Entertaining
These crab cakes work particularly well as elevated appetizers for celebrations and gatherings. The appeal is simple: crab cakes feel special.
“If you get crab cakes at a restaurant when you’re on a trip, it feels like a special treat,” Lindsay added. In Omaha and other landlocked areas, quality crab cakes aren’t readily available at most restaurants. Costco’s version brings that coastal dining experience home at a fraction of restaurant prices.
The bite-sized format also makes them ideal for parties. Guests can grab one or two without committing to a full entrée, and the presentation looks elevated on an appetizer spread. They pair well with lemon aioli, cocktail sauce or remoulade.
Breaking Down the Value
At $18 for 30-40 pieces, each crab cake costs roughly 45-60 cents. That’s comparable to or cheaper than similar frozen seafood appetizers at traditional grocery stores, and significantly less expensive than restaurant crab cakes which often run $12-18 for just two or three.
For anyone planning special occasion gatherings — holiday parties, game day celebrations or dinner parties — the convenience and quality combination justifies the cost. These aren’t everyday frozen snacks, but they’re priced appropriately for what they deliver.
The Verdict
Phillips Crab Cake Bites from Costco earn high marks, particularly when served warm and fresh from the air fryer. They’re an impressive party appetizer that tastes far more expensive than they actually are.
The key to success? Proper preparation. Air fry or bake them according to package directions, serve them immediately, and pair with a complementary dipping sauce. Follow those simple guidelines, and you’ll have an appetizer that elevates any gathering without spending hours in the kitchen.
Want more Costco product reviews and shopping insights? The Membership Exclusive podcast offers regular Costco deep dives, product reviews and shopping tips.
