Crabbies(Appetizer)
Creamy, savory crab spread with cheese and seasonings, perfect for spreading on toasted muffins; a delightful appetizer for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend butter, cheese, mayonnaise, garlic salt, seasoned salt, and crab until well combined.
- Spread the mixture on muffin halves.
- Freeze until ready to serve, placing on a cookie sheet first.
- Cut into 6 to 8 wedges and store in a plastic bag.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture. If you can't find Old English cheese, any sharp cheddar can work as a substitute. Make sure to drain the crab thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the mixture. This recipe is perfect for parties and pairs beautifully with Baked Crab And Shrimp Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the Crabbies into wedges for easy serving at parties. They pair well with a fresh green salad or a light tomato soup for a full meal. For a more substantial appetizer, consider serving them alongside Cheese 'N' Crab Appetizers, which complement the flavors well. A chilled white wine or sparkling water makes a great drink pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Crabbies in an airtight container in the freezer. They can be kept for up to a month. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and slightly golden. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabbies(Appetizer) contains roughly 385 calories, with 7g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1453mg per serving (63% 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 prepare Crabbies in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the mixture ahead of time and spread it on the muffin halves. Just freeze them until you're ready to serve. This makes it a convenient appetizer for gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
What can I substitute for crab in this recipe?
If you're looking for an alternative to crab, cooked shrimp or imitation crab meat can work well. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked artichoke hearts or chopped mushrooms. Adjust seasonings accordingly to enhance the flavors.
How long do Crabbies take to bake?
If baking from frozen, Crabbies typically take about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them; they're done when they're heated through and slightly golden. For best results, avoid baking them directly from thawed to prevent them from becoming too soft.
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).