Boiled Crab Meltaways
Creamy, cheesy crabmelts with a hint of Old Bay and garlic, perfect as an appetizer or party snack, combining rich crab meat with toasted English muffins.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the English muffins in half and arrange them on a broiler pan.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic salt until well combined.
- Fold the crab meat into the mixture gently.
- Spread the crab mixture evenly onto each muffin half.
- Broil until the muffins puff up, are bubbly, and slightly brown.
- Cut into triangles and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the crab mixture or incorporating chopped green onions. If you don't have Old Bay seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, and celery salt will work well. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. These meltaways are a fantastic twist on classic American recipes, perfect for any gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crab meltaways hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or a side of steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving with Janet'S Shrimp Dip as an appetizer. These meltaways are also great for game day or casual gatherings with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds, but broiling will help maintain the meltaway's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Boiled Crab Meltaways contains roughly 605 calories, with 4g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned crabmeat instead of fresh?
Yes, canned crabmeat is a convenient alternative and works well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly and check for any shell fragments before adding it to the mixture. Fresh crabmeat will provide a sweeter taste and firmer texture, but canned is perfectly acceptable for a quick meal.
What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay seasoning on hand, try a blend of paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Alternatively, a mix of celery salt and thyme can mimic the flavors. Adjust the quantities to your taste to achieve a similar flavor profile.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crab mixture and spread it on the muffin halves a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to broil them. This makes for a quick and easy appetizer when entertaining guests.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).