Broiled Crab Sandwiches
Broiled crab sandwiches offer a rich, cheesy filling with tender crab and onions, topped with melted American cheese, perfect for a quick, flavorful seafood lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the crab, minced onion, shredded American cheese, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly on slices of French bread.
- Place the prepared bread slices on cookie sheets.
- Broil until the mixture is bubbly and brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce to the crab mixture. If you're out of American cheese, cheddar or mozzarella can work as substitutes. For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. To ensure even browning, keep an eye on the sandwiches while broiling and rotate the sheets if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these broiled crab sandwiches warm, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or a side of potato chips for crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a bowl of clam chowder or browse more American recipes for additional options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread the mixture on fresh French bread and broil again until bubbly and golden. Alternatively, you can microwave the mixture, but broiling helps retain the crispiness of the bread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broiled Crab Sandwiches contains roughly 409 calories, with 12g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 803mg per serving (35% 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 enhance the flavor and texture of the sandwiches. Just make sure to pick through it for any shells and adjust the mayonnaise to keep the mixture moist. Fresh crab can elevate this dish to make it even more special, especially if you're a fan of seafood recipes.
How can I make these sandwiches healthier?
To create a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter spread. You can also add chopped spinach or other greens to the crab mixture for added nutrients. Opt for whole grain French bread for extra fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also more nutritious.
What types of bread work best for this recipe?
While French bread is traditional, you can experiment with other breads like sourdough or ciabatta for a different texture and flavor. A hearty bread will hold up well to the broiling process and the crab mixture, ensuring a satisfying crunch with each bite.
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).