Description
Crab Crunchies are delightful bite-sized appetizers featuring lump crab meat blended with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and spices, all baked to golden perfection in mini phyllo shells or on buttery crackers. Topped with shredded cheese and a buttery crispy topping, these easy-to-make seafood snacks are perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crab Mixture
- 1 cup lump crab meat (drained and picked over)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 green onion (finely chopped)
Toppings and Shells
- 12 mini phyllo shells or butter crackers
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella
- 1/4 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the crab crunchies to a perfect golden crisp.
- Prepare the crab mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat with softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and the finely chopped green onion. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and creamy.
- Fill the shells or crackers: Arrange the mini phyllo shells or butter crackers on a baking sheet. Spoon the crab mixture evenly into each shell or onto each cracker, ensuring a generous but neat portion.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the crab-filled shells or crackers to add a melty, flavorful layer.
- Prepare crunchy topping: In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the tops of each filled shell or cracker for added texture and richness.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the crab crunchies cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and ensuring they’re safe to eat.
Notes
- You can substitute canned crab or imitation crab if fresh lump crab meat is unavailable.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or alongside your favorite cocktail sauce for added brightness.
- These crab crunchies can be made ahead and reheated in the oven just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
