Description
If you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and bursting with seafood flavor, this Quick and Easy Maryland Crab Melt is just what you need. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer, this recipe combines the briny sweetness of crab meat with gooey melted cheese on a crisp, buttery slice of bread. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser you can whip up any time!
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Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lump crab meat: Fresh or canned, drained and picked over for shells.
- 4 slices of bread: Choose a sturdy option like sourdough, rye, or English muffins.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: For creamy richness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang.
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: A classic Maryland spice mix.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: For a fresh, zesty kick.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery: Adds a touch of crunch.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onion: For flavor and color.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Butter: For toasting the bread.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crab Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, celery, and green onion.
- Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid breaking up the crab meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
- Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread.
- In a skillet or griddle over medium heat, toast the bread (buttered side down) until golden brown.
Step 3: Assemble the Crab Melt
- Place the toasted bread slices on a baking sheet, toasted side down.
- Evenly spread the crab mixture over the untoasted side of each slice.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Broil the Crab Melt
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
- Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the melts from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm with a side of crisp salad, coleslaw, or potato chips.
Notes
- Use Fresh Crab: Fresh lump crab meat delivers the best flavor, but high-quality canned crab works in a pinch.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, Swiss, provolone, or a sharp gouda also pair beautifully with crab.
- Toast the Bread: Toasting one side keeps the bread crispy even after adding the crab mixture.
- Customize the Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American