Crab Melts
Crab Melts are savory appetizers featuring creamy crab mixture topped on English muffin quarters, broiled until bubbly, perfect for seafood lovers and elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut English muffins into quarters.
- Mix crab, margarine, Old English cheese, mayonnaise, and seasoned salt to make the crab mixture.
- Spread the crab mixture onto the muffin quarters.
- Freeze the assembled crab melts for 30 minutes.
- Broil until puffy and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider replacing margarine with olive oil or using low-fat cream cheese instead of Old English cheese. If you want to enhance the flavors, add chopped green onions or a dash of hot sauce to the crab mixture. Using fresh crab meat will elevate the dish, but canned crab works well too if you're short on time. Be sure to keep an eye on the broiler to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crab melts as a delightful appetizer or a light dinner paired with a fresh salad. They are perfect alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them with roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw. These also make a great addition to any seafood recipes gathering or as a party snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crab melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until heated through and bubbly. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the muffins soggy. If you want to freeze them, do so before broiling, then bake straight from the freezer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Melts contains roughly 618 calories, with 11g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1183mg per serving (51% 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 a different type of cheese for the crab melts?
Absolutely! While Old English cheese gives a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the taste slightly, so choose one that complements the crab.
Can I make these crab melts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture and assemble the melts a day in advance. Freeze them as instructed, then you can broil them directly from frozen when you're ready to serve. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining or quick weeknight meals.
What type of crab should I use for this recipe?
You can use lump crab meat, which is ideal for its sweet flavor and texture, but claw meat works well too. If you're on a budget, canned crab is a practical choice. Just be sure to drain it well and check for any shell pieces before mixing it into your crab melt mixture.
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).