Seafood Open Face Sandwich
A creamy seafood open-face sandwich featuring crabmeat and melted cheese, perfect for a quick, indulgent appetizer or light lunch with rich flavors and crispy bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened Velveeta cheese and soft butter in a bowl.
- Stir flaked crabmeat into the cheese and butter mixture and set aside.
- Toast white bread on one side in the broiler or oven.
- Heap the cheese and crabmeat mixture on the untoasted side of the bread.
- Place the prepared bread under the broiler until bubbly, watching carefully.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese instead of Velveeta and butter. To enhance flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to the crabmeat mixture. If crabmeat isn’t available, tuna can be substituted for a similar texture. Ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings, as soft bread may become soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this seafood open face sandwich with a light salad, such as a Seafood Rice Salad, for a refreshing contrast. Pair it with crispy potato chips or pickles for added crunch. This dish is perfect for a casual lunch or as an appetizer for gatherings. It also works well alongside a chilled glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover seafood open face sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place the sandwich under the broiler for a few minutes until heated through and bubbly, making sure to watch closely to avoid burning. It’s best to eat them fresh for optimal texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Open Face Sandwich contains roughly 444 calories, with 8g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 542mg per serving (24% 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 fresh crab instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat can elevate the dish with its flavor and texture. Just ensure it's fully cooked and flaked before mixing it with the cheese and butter. Adjust the amount based on your preference, but keep in mind that fresh crab may have a different moisture content compared to canned.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the seafood open face sandwich gluten-free, simply substitute the white bread with gluten-free bread. There are many great options available now that mimic the texture of traditional bread. Additionally, check the labels on the Velveeta cheese and crabmeat to ensure they are free from gluten-containing ingredients.
What can I serve on the side?
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp green salad or a bowl of vegetable soup. If you're looking for something heartier, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw. For a fun appetizer spread, you could also include Crabmeat Fondue Appetizer alongside it.
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).