Crabbies
Crabbies are savory, cheesy crab appetizer bites featuring a rich blend of sharp cheese, mayonnaise, garlic salt, and crabmeat spread on toasted English muffins. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these flavorful morsels are easy to prepare, can be frozen, and serve well as hors d'oeuvres or finger food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened butter or margarine, garlic salt, mayonnaise, and the package of sharp cheese in a bowl until well mixed.
- Stir in the canned crabmeat until evenly incorporated.
- Spread the mixture generously on split English muffins.
- Place the prepared muffins on a baking sheet and bake at 450°F for 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cut each muffin into 6 or 8 pieces to serve as hors d'oeuvres.
- Optionally, freeze the leftovers for future use.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using old bay seasoning or a splash of lemon juice in the mixture. If sharp cheese is unavailable, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can provide a nice texture and taste. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Ensure the butter is softened but not melted to maintain the right consistency when combining ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
These Crabbies make excellent hors d'oeuvres for parties or gatherings. They pair beautifully with a light salad, such as a Crab And Avocado Salad, or a refreshing drink like a crisp white wine. For a complete meal, serve alongside a heartier dish, such as Fish Chowder, to satisfy guests. Cut into smaller pieces for easy sharing at buffets or cocktail hours.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pieces on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds, but be cautious to not overheat, which can make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabbies contains roughly 498 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 51g fat.
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 imitation crab instead of real crabmeat?
Yes, imitation crab works well in this recipe and can provide a similar texture and flavor. Just ensure to break it up into smaller pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients. This substitution is not only economical but also convenient for those who may have difficulty finding canned crabmeat.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Crabbies gluten-free, simply substitute the split English muffins with gluten-free English muffins or another suitable alternative, such as gluten-free crackers. Additionally, double-check the mayonnaise and cheese labels to ensure they are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising on taste or dietary restrictions.
Can I prepare Crabbies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply spread the mixture on the English muffins just before baking. This makes it convenient for entertaining, allowing you to spend more time with your guests. Just remember to adjust the baking time if the muffins are cold from the fridge.
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).