Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the golden English muffins from the oven, their warm, buttery aroma instantly filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn’t wait to dive into these Old English Crab Melt Muffins—an irresistible blend of rich crab meat and gooey cheddar that turns any gathering into a delightful experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these muffins serve as the perfect appetizer or light meal that is bursting with flavor and surprisingly quick to whip up. Plus, they are freezer-friendly, so you can always have a scrumptious dish on hand for those unexpected cravings. Curious about how to bring a taste of coastal comfort into your home? Let’s dive into the recipe together! Why are These Muffins So Irresistible? Comforting Flavor: These Old English Crab Melt Muffins bring a taste of the coast right to your kitchen, combining the rich, buttery crab meat with creamy cheddar for an unforgettable bite. Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these muffins ready in less than 30 minutes, proving that great flavorful dishes don’t have to take hours! Versatile Delight: Whether served as an appetizer at a party or enjoyed as a light meal, they adapt to any occasion—just like our scrumptious Melt Mouth Garlic dish! Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze them for those days when fast food calls—simply pop them in the oven for a quick, delightful treat. Guilty Pleasure: Savor the indulgence without the guilt, balancing the richness with refreshing components like lemon juice and parsley, much like the vibrant flavors in Golden Girl Salad. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful muffins that are certain to become a new favorite! Old English Crab Melt Muffin Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create these delectable crab melt muffins! For the Crab Mixture Cooked Crab Meat – The star of the dish; fresh or canned will work beautifully. Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute. Dijon Mustard – A touch of tanginess that enhances the flavors. Butter (melted) – Helps bind the mixture and elevate the flavor depth. Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Provides a burst of freshness that complements the dish. Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to brighten the overall flavor profile. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste. For the Muffins English Muffins – Their crunchy texture gives the perfect base for the crab mixture. Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds richness; feel free to swap with Gruyère or Swiss for a different twist. Whether you’re preparing these scrumptious Old English Crab Melt Muffins for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive gathering, these ingredients will ensure you create a dish that’s comfort food at its finest! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old English Crab Melt Muffins Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure a perfectly molten cheese crust when you bake your Old English Crab Melt Muffins. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients and prepare your baking sheet, lining it with parchment paper if desired for easy cleanup. Step 2: Prepare the Crab Mixture In a mixing bowl, combine your cooked crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, melted butter, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir these ingredients together until well blended, creating a generous, creamy mixture that will fill your muffins. Take a moment to taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary, aiming for a delightful harmony of flavors. Step 3: Arrange the Muffins Next, take your English muffins and slice them in half. Place the muffin halves on the baking sheet with the cut side facing up, creating a lovely platform for the rich crab mixture. Make sure they are spaced evenly on the baking sheet to allow for proper toasting and melting during baking. Step 4: Spread the Crab Mixture Using a spoon, generously dollop the prepared crab mixture onto each muffin half, spreading it evenly so that every bite is packed with flavor. The crab filling should overflow slightly, hinting at the deliciousness that awaits. Take care to distribute the mixture evenly to ensure all of your Old English Crab Melt Muffins bake beautifully. Step 5: Add the Cheese Now, sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded cheddar cheese over each muffin half, covering the crab mixture completely. This layer of cheese will create a gooey and golden crust as it bakes. To elevate the flavor even more, feel free to mix in some Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a delightful twist on your crab melts. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the muffins as they bake—look for the cheese to bubble and turn a golden brown, signaling that they are ready to be pulled from the oven. The enticing aroma of melted cheese and crab will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait. Step 7: Serve and Savor Once baked to golden perfection, remove the Old English Crab Melt Muffins from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. Serve them warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. These muffins are perfect as a comfort snack or a sophisticated appetizer that will surely impress your guests! Make Ahead Options These Old English Crab Melt Muffins are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy deliciousness with minimal effort! You can prepare the crab mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the cooked crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, melted butter, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then cover and refrigerate it. Additionally, you can slice the English muffins ahead of time—just keep them airtight to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, spread the crab mixture on the muffins, sprinkle with cheese, and bake them for about 15-20 minutes. This way, you’ll have quick, restaurant-quality snacks ready in no time! What to Serve with Old English Crab Melt Muffins Looking to create a memorable meal around your delightful crab melt muffins? Let’s explore some fantastic pairings that will elevate your dining experience. Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully. Roasted Asparagus: The earthy, slight crunch of roasted asparagus adds contrast while enhancing your seafood delight with its subtle freshness. Garlic Butter Shrimp: Elevate the seafood theme by serving this quick and succulent dish alongside your muffins, adding depth and flavor variety. Creamy Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw offers crunch and a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing the richness of the crab melts for a satisfying bite. Lemonade Spritzer: A citrusy, fizzy drink brings refreshing brightness that pairs delightfully with the savory muffins. Consider infusing mint for an extra twist! Zesty Tomato Soup: Serve a warm bowl of zesty tomato soup for dipping; its acidity and warmth make a cozy companion to your crab melts. Chardonnay: Pair with a chilled glass of Chardonnay. The wine’s bright acidity and fruity notes will complement the crab’s creaminess beautifully. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse will satisfy your sweet tooth, rounding out the meal with a decadent finish. Craft a full, unforgettable dining experience around your Old English Crab Melt Muffins with these delightful pairings! Old English Crab Melt Muffins Variations & Substitutions Feel free to elevate your Old English Crab Melt Muffins with these fun, delicious twists that cater to any flavor craving! Seafood Swap: Replace crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a luxurious seafood melt that’s sure to impress. The sweetness of lobster brings an indulgent touch perfect for special occasions. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss instead of cheddar. Each brings a unique flavor profile, elevating your muffin game to new heights. Lightened Up: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, protein-packed version without sacrificing creaminess and flavor. It’ll still be delightful! Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the crab mixture for a fiery twist. A little heat pairs wonderfully with the richness of the crab and cheese. Herbaceous Boost: Try adding dill or chives to the crab mixture for a refreshing herb twist. They provide a fresh burst that complements the seafood beautifully. Vegetarian Delight: For a meat-free option, replace crab with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a medley of roasted vegetables. The earthiness creates a satisfying, flavorful melt! Mediterranean Flair: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the crab mixture for an Italian-inspired version. This twist will transport your taste buds right to the Mediterranean coastline. Southern Charm: Incorporate a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for that nostalgic crab shanty flavor. It enhances the crab while introducing a warm, inviting zest. No matter which variation you choose, these muffins are guaranteed to be a hit! And if you’re keen on more mouthwatering recipes, why not delve into our Mushroom Swiss Melt for another cheesy delight or whip up the vibrant Golden Girl Salad as a balancing side? Enjoy customizing your culinary adventure! Expert Tips for Old English Crab Melt Muffins Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality, fresh crab meat for the best flavor. Canned works, but fresh really elevates these melt muffins. Season Wisely: Adjust the salt and pepper carefully in the crab mixture, as the cheese will also add saltiness. Taste before baking! Don’t Rush the Bake: Keep an eye on the muffins towards the end of baking. Remove them as soon as the cheese bubbles and turns golden to avoid burning. Space It Out: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this ensures even heating and that every muffin gets that perfect golden crust. Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins, like jalapeños, to customize your Old English Crab Melt Muffins to your taste! How to Store and Freeze Old English Crab Melt Muffins Fridge: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Freezer: To freeze, individually wrap the muffins in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen muffins directly from the freezer in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly again. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the crab mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake your Old English Crab Melt Muffins, simply assemble and toast fresh! Old English Crab Melt Muffins Recipe FAQs How do I select the best crab meat for my muffins? When selecting crab meat, it’s best to choose fresh, high-quality crab for maximum flavor. If using canned crab, ensure there are no dark spots and it has a fresh ocean scent. If fresh isn’t available, opt for pasteurized crab meat in a vacuum-sealed container; just avoid anything that looks brown or smells off. How should I store leftover Old English Crab Melt Muffins? Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they’re warmed through and the cheese is gooey again. Can I freeze these crab melt muffins? What’s the best way to do it? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, take them directly from the freezer and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This way, your muffins will come out bubbly and delicious! What if the crab mixture is too dry? If you find the crab mixture is too dry, simply add a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice to moisten it. This not only enhances flavor but helps bind the ingredients together better for that creamy texture we crave! Do these muffins contain allergens I should be aware of? Yes, these Old English Crab Melt Muffins contain seafood and dairy, which can be allergens for some. If preparing for someone with allergies, ensure to verify all ingredient labels, especially the crab and cheese. For a variation, you could substitute crab with a plant-based protein if needed. How can I make these muffins healthier? To lighten up your crab melt muffins, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option. You can also reduce the cheese quantity or use lower-fat cheese alternatives without compromising taste. Adding more fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance flavors, giving you that satisfying taste while keeping things on the lighter side. Old English Crab Melt Muffins: Comfort Food You’ll Crave Old English Crab Melt Muffins are an irresistible blend of crab meat and cheddar that turn gatherings into delightful experiences. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 muffinsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: EnglishCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crab Mixture1 cup cooked crab meat fresh or canned1/4 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a substitute1 tablespoon Dijon mustard2 tablespoons butter melted1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped1 tablespoon lemon juiceto taste saltto taste pepperFor the Muffins4 pieces English muffins1 cup shredded cheddar cheese can substitute Gruyère or Swiss Equipment Mixing BowlBaking Sheetparchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, melted butter, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.Slice the English muffins in half and place them on the baking sheet cut side up.Dollop the crab mixture onto each muffin half, spreading it evenly.Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each muffin half.Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.Remove from the oven, allow to cool for a minute, and serve warm garnished with fresh parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1muffinCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesThese muffins are best served warm and can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge. They are also freezer-friendly. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
