Crab Pastries
Crab pastries are flaky, savory treats filled with creamy crab and onion, coated in crushed potato chips for added crunch—perfect for appetizers or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all filling ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Separate dough into rectangles, firmly pressing perforations to seal.
- Spread the filling to within 1/4 inch of the dough edge.
- Fold dough over, covering completely, and seal well.
- Brush with melted butter and roll in crushed potato chips.
- Place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Slice while warm and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some finely chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the filling for added flavor and heat. If you don't have crab meat, canned tuna can be a great substitute. Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Using fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
These crab pastries are perfect as appetizers or party snacks. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, such as a lemon aioli or cocktail sauce. Serve alongside a fresh salad, like Shrimp Vegetable Salad, for a light meal. For a full seafood feast, consider serving them with Hot Crab Salad Sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them as it can make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Pastries contains roughly 242 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 475mg per serving (21% 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 make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to mix it well before using it to fill the crescent rolls. This can save you time on the day you plan to serve the pastries.
Can I freeze these crab pastries?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked pastries before baking. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, ricotta cheese works well as a substitute for cream cheese. You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, but it may change the texture slightly. Just ensure it's thick enough to hold the filling together.
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).