Broiled Crab Melt-Away
A creamy, cheesy crab melt served on toasted English muffins, perfect for a savory appetizer or quick snack with rich flavors and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toast the muffin halves.
- Mix margarine, Cheez Whiz, mayonnaise, seasoned salt, garlic salt, and crab meat until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on the toasted muffin halves and sprinkle with paprika.
- Cut each muffin into quarters.
- Freeze the quarters for at least 2 days and up to 1 month.
- Broil until golden before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the margarine with cream cheese. If you're short on Cheez Whiz, a blend of shredded cheddar and a splash of milk can work as a substitute. When mixing ingredients, ensure the crab meat is flaked gently to maintain its delicate texture. Be careful not to over-broil, as this can dry out the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These crab melts are perfect as a savory appetizer or a delightful snack. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh Toss-Up Salad or pair with a light soup for a satisfying lunch. Consider offering a dipping sauce like cocktail sauce or a zesty aioli to enhance the flavors even further.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the broiled crab melts in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the uncooked frozen quarters can be kept in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, broil from frozen until bubbly and golden, or bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broiled Crab Melt-Away contains roughly 216 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1923mg per serving (84% 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 fresh crab meat instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh crab meat will elevate the dish significantly. Just make sure to cook and drain it thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients. Fresh crab provides a sweeter and more robust flavor, making the melts even more delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! The uncooked crab melts can be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply broil from frozen until heated through and golden brown.
What can I serve with crab melts?
Crab melts pair wonderfully with a light salad like Grandma'S Tuna Supreme Salad or a side of crispy baked fries. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them with a bowl of clam chowder or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the crab.
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).