Crab Thingers
Crab Thingers are cheesy, savory appetizers featuring crabmeat on toasted muffins, perfect for impressing guests at parties or enjoying a flavorful snack with a seafood twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except English muffins in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture on split English muffin halves.
- Freeze for 10 minutes or until ready to serve.
- Cut each muffin into 1/4 or 1/6 pieces.
- Broil on a rack in a cookie sheet until browned and bubbling, about 2-3 minutes.
- Keep the oven rack about 8 inches from the broiler to ensure even cooking before browning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or replacing it with sour cream. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to increase the garlic powder. You can also substitute the crabmeat with shrimp for a variation. To save time, make the mixture ahead and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble. This dish is perfect for parties or as a snack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Crab Thingers as a warm appetizer at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with a crisp salad or a side of cocktail sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside dishes like Flounder Stuffed With Crab Meat or a light pasta salad. Guests will love the combination of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Crab Thingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and broil for a couple of minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. You can also freeze them before broiling for later use.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Thingers contains roughly 103 calories, with 5g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 602mg per serving (26% 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 canned crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, canned crab meat works well for this recipe and is a convenient option. Just ensure you drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Fresh or frozen crab meat can also be used if available, providing a more vibrant flavor.
What can I serve with Crab Thingers?
Crab Thingers pair well with a variety of sides. Consider offering a simple green salad or a fruit platter to balance the richness. Additionally, serving them with a dipping sauce, like a zesty cocktail sauce or a lemon aioli, can enhance the overall experience.
How long can I keep the mixture before using it?
The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before spreading on the English muffins. Just keep it covered to maintain freshness. If you need to prepare it further in advance, consider freezing the individual muffin halves after spreading the 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).