Caroline Seafood Muffins
Delicious seafood muffins with crab or shrimp, melted cheese, and a hint of Tabasco, perfect as an appetizer or snack for seafood lovers and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well and spread on buttered, toasted muffin halves.
- Put under the broiler until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or bell peppers to the mixture. If you're out of Cheddar cheese, a sharp Gruyère or even cream cheese can work well. Make sure the seafood is fresh and cooked before mixing. To ensure even cooking, keep an eye on the muffins while broiling, as they can brown quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these seafood muffins as a delightful appetizer or a light lunch option. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Baked Catfish Parmesan or a fresh seafood salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover seafood mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the mixture on fresh muffin halves and broil until heated through and golden brown. Avoid microwaving as it can make the seafood rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caroline Seafood Muffins contains roughly 82 calories, with 12g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 582mg per serving (25% 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 frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen crab or shrimp, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing. This will help maintain the texture of the muffins. If using canned seafood, rinse it well to reduce sodium content.
What kind of muffins should I use?
English muffins work best for this recipe due to their sturdy texture and ability to hold the toppings well. However, you can also use regular muffins if you prefer a sweeter base, though the flavor will be different.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make the seafood muffins more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or breadcrumbs to the mixture for added texture and bulk. Serving them with a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty soup can also enhance the meal.
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).