Chatters(Crab Melt-Aways)
Crispy, cheesy crab melt-aways feature flavorful crab and seasoned cheese spread on toasted muffins, perfect as holiday appetizers or elegant finger foods for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let butter and cheese soften.
- Mix softened butter and cheese with mayonnaise and seasonings.
- Add crabmeat to the mixture and stir well.
- Spread the mixture evenly on split English muffins.
- Freeze the assembled muffins for 10 minutes.
- Broil until bubbly and golden.
- Cut into quarters like pie slices.
- Can be made and frozen a couple of weeks in advance without thawing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley. If you can't find Old English cheese, a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese works well. To add some heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a twist, try substituting the crabmeat with cooked shrimp, reminiscent of Shrimp Party Sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crab melt-aways as an appetizer at your next gathering, alongside a crisp salad or a bowl of soup for a light meal. They pair beautifully with Rich And Creamy Macaroni Salad for a delightful seafood-themed lunch. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the melted crab mixture on the muffins under the broiler for a few minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also freeze the assembled muffins before broiling; just broil directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chatters(Crab Melt-Aways) contains roughly 534 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1904mg per serving (83% 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 imitation crab meat instead of real crab?
Yes, imitation crab meat can be used as a more affordable alternative. It will provide a different flavor profile but will still work well in this recipe. Just be sure to break it into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! These crab melt-aways can be assembled a couple of weeks in advance and frozen without thawing. Just broil them straight from the freezer when you're ready to serve, making them a convenient option for entertaining or quick snacks.
What can I serve with crab melt-aways?
These crab melt-aways are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider a light green salad or vegetable platter for a refreshing balance. They also pair nicely with creamy soups or a selection of dips, making them a perfect addition to any gathering.
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).