Crab And Cheese Bites(Appetizer)
Crab and cheese bites offer a savory, cheesy appetizer with a hint of seafood flavor, perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Crispy on the outside and creamy inside, they can be customized with spicy or tangy toppings, making them a versatile choice for seafood lovers and party guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix oleo, cream cheese, crabmeat, and Cheez Whiz until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the cut sides of English muffin halves.
- Place the prepared muffins in the freezer until the mixture is firm enough to cut into wedges, about 1 hour.
- Remove from freezer and cut each muffin into wedges, about 4 per half.
- Refreeze the wedges in a plastic bag for storage.
- When ready to serve, remove the desired amount and broil until golden brown.
- Serve immediately, optionally garnished with horseradish, jalapeno Cheez Whiz, or shrimp cocktail sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the mixture along with the Cheez Whiz. If you want to switch things up, try using a different type of seafood like shrimp or incorporate spicy jalapenos for a kick. You can also use whole wheat English muffins for a healthier option. These bites are reminiscent of classic American recipes, making them a delicious twist on a traditional dish.
Serving Suggestions
These crab and cheese bites are great as a standalone appetizer or can be served alongside a fresh salad or vegetable platter for a complete meal. For an extra flavor boost, consider garnishing with horseradish or serving with shrimp cocktail sauce. They pair beautifully with Jeanette'S Hot Clam Dip for a seafood-themed gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab and cheese bites in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain their freshness. When ready to enjoy them again, simply remove the desired amount and broil until heated through and golden brown. This method ensures that they remain crispy on the outside while staying flavorful inside.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab And Cheese Bites(Appetizer) contains roughly 429 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 470mg per serving (20% 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 instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crab meat will enhance the flavor and texture of these bites. Just ensure it's cooked and shredded before mixing it with the other ingredients. This substitution can elevate the dish and give it a more gourmet touch.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapenos into the crab mixture or use spicy Cheez Whiz. You can also serve the bites with a spicy dipping sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before broiling for an extra kick.
How long can I store these in the freezer?
These crab and cheese bites can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure they're properly sealed in a plastic bag to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, broil them directly from the freezer for best results.
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).