Maryland Crabbies
Maryland Crabbies are savory crab appetizer bites topped with seasoned cheese and parsley, baked to perfection—ideal for seafood lovers and parties seeking a flavorful, cheesy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter.
- Mix garlic, Old Bay seasoning, mayonnaise, parsley, and Old English cheese; fold into crab meat.
- Split the English muffins; you will have 12 halves.
- Spread the crab mixture on each English muffin half.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of different cheeses instead of just Old English cheese. If you want to reduce the calories, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil. Be sure to use fresh crab meat for the best taste, or canned crab meat if you're in a pinch. This dish is great for parties and can be made ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Maryland Crabbies as a delightful appetizer or snack at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or a light seafood dish like Crab Cocktail. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a creamy soup. They also make for a great addition to a buffet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the crabbies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the muffins soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryland Crabbies contains roughly 1475 calories, with 12g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 129g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% 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?
Yes, you can substitute Old English cheese with other cheeses like cream cheese or cheddar. This will give the crabbies a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well for the best texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to your Maryland Crabbies, you can mix in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the crab mixture. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance, and this will bring a nice kick to the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crab mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread it on the English muffins and bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining.
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).