Crab-Filled Phyllo Bites
Crab-filled phyllo bites offer a delicate, flaky exterior with a rich, savory crab and cheese filling. Perfect for appetizers or parties, they combine seafood with crispy pastry and fresh herbs, appealing to seafood lovers and those seeking elegant, bite-sized snacks.
Ingredients
- 6 oz. can crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed
- 1/4 cup crushed shredded wheat wafers (6 crackers) ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder ⓘ
- 1/2 cup melted butter ⓘ
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 oz. can mushroom stems and pieces, drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoons snipped parsley ⓘ
- dash of pepper ⓘ
- 6 sheets frozen phyllo dough (16 x 13-inch), thawed ⓘ
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine crabmeat, shredded Swiss cheese, chopped mushrooms, crushed shredded wheat wafers, snipped parsley, onion powder, and a dash of pepper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and toss to mix. Set aside.
- Unfold the phyllo sheets and spread one sheet flat on a clean surface.
- Brush the sheet with melted butter, then top with another sheet.
- Cover the remaining phyllo sheets with a damp towel or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Cut the buttered phyllo stack lengthwise into four strips, then crosswise into five strips, creating 20 squares approximately 3 1/4 inches each.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce into the crab filling. If you can't find phyllo dough, puff pastry can be a great alternative, though it will yield a different texture. Ensure your phyllo sheets remain damp while working with them, as they dry out quickly. For a twist, try adding some Old Bay seasoning, a classic complement to seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These crab-filled phyllo bites make a wonderful appetizer for gatherings and pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or a tangy dipping sauce like cocktail sauce. For a delightful spread, serve alongside Pineapple Shrimp Appetizers and Smoked Oyster Dip to create a seafood-themed platter that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab-filled phyllo bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the phyllo soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab-Filled Phyllo Bites contains roughly 420 calories, with 9g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C.
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?
Absolutely! Fresh crab meat will provide a richer flavor and texture. Just ensure it's cooked and flaked properly. This recipe works well with both canned and fresh crab, so feel free to use your preference.
How can I make these bites ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the phyllo bites just before baking to ensure they stay crispy. Alternatively, you can assemble and freeze them before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyère or Monterey Jack are excellent substitutes that will melt well and provide a similar creamy texture. Both options will complement the crab flavor nicely.
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).