If there’s one dish that has the power to transport me straight to the seaside, it’s these Shrimp Crab Melts. Picture this: the moment you bite into the flaky biscuit, a savory burst of shrimp and succulent lump crab mingles with gooey mozzarella and a hint of Old Bay seasoning. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for those evenings when you crave something indulgent yet effortless.
These melts are a delightful twist on the classic seafood favorites, surprisingly easy to whip up in just 25 minutes. Just imagine setting a platter of these golden beauties before your friends or family—suddenly, the mundane dinner routine transforms into a delightful mini seafood feast! Whether you’re a culinary novice or a kitchen pro, this recipe is bound to impress without causing you any stress. So, let’s dive into what makes these Shrimp Crab Melts a must-try for your next gathering or cozy night in!
Why are Shrimp Crab Melts a Showstopper?
Ease of Preparation: You’ll be amazed at how simple these melts are to prepare, taking a mere 25 minutes from start to finish.
Flavor Explosion: The perfect blend of shrimp, crab, and cheese creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these melts are sure to wow your guests.
Versatile Indulgence: Customize your filling with other seafood or seasonal herbs for a personalized touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy them as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal that radiates warmth and comfort! Dive into these Shrimp Crab Melts and elevate your home-cooked meals to a whole new level.
Shrimp Crab Melts Ingredients
Get ready to create a seafood masterpiece with these delicious Shrimp Crab Melts!
For the Biscuit Base
• Refrigerated flaky biscuits – These are the perfect foundation for your melts, offering a buttery, flaky texture.
For the Filling
• Cooked shrimp – Make sure to chop them finely for even distribution in each melt.
• Lump crab meat – Adds a sweet, delicate flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – This melty cheese binds everything together and provides creamy goodness.
• Cream cheese – Soften it before mixing to ensure a smooth and luscious filling.
• Old Bay seasoning – A must-have for authentic flavor, giving that classic seafood taste.
• Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of color and a layer of fresh flavor to the filling.
For the Topping
• Butter – Brush melted butter on top for a golden finish and added richness.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make Shrimp Crab Melts that are not just delightful but also a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Shrimp Crab Melts
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your Shrimp Crab Melts will bake evenly and turn golden brown while cooking.
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Prepare Biscuits: Flatten each refrigerated biscuit slightly on a baking sheet. This forms the perfect pockets for your delicious filling, making them easier to assemble.
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Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and freshly chopped parsley. Blend everything until well mixed, creating a savory filling.
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Assemble Melts: Spoon the flavorful filling onto half of the biscuits. Then, place the remaining biscuits on top. Pinch the edges to seal them, pressing lightly to secure your delectable goodies.
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Brush and Bake: Brush the tops with melted butter for a lovely shine. Bake in the oven for 13–15 minutes until they are golden brown and your kitchen is filled with mouthwatering aromas.
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Rest and Serve: Let the melts rest for about 2 minutes once out of the oven. Finally, slice them or serve whole to enjoy their comforting warmth.
Optional: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Shrimp Crab Melts
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Quality Seafood: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp and crab meat for an authentic taste that shines through in your Shrimp Crab Melts.
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Seal Well: Make sure to pinch the edges of the biscuits firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking, ensuring every bite is delicious and cheesy.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like dill or chives to personalize your filling and make the flavors pop!
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Perfect Baking: Keep an eye on your melts in the last few minutes of baking; ovens can vary, and you want them golden and crispy without burning.
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Serving Suggestions: These Shrimp Crab Melts are delightful on their own but consider serving them with a fresh salad or homemade dipping sauces for extra flavor and texture.
Shrimp Crab Melts Variations
Get ready to elevate your shrimp crab melts with these fun and tasty twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap mozzarella and cream cheese with plant-based cheese alternatives for a dairy-free delight without losing creaminess.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a zesty heat that will have spice lovers cheering.
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Herbaceous Bliss: Mix in fresh dill or chives to the filling to enhance the seafood flavor and add a delightful aroma.
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Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes on top before baking for an irresistible crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the filling to brighten the flavors and give a refreshing finish to each melt.
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Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers or green onions to the seafood mixture for a colorful crunch and a little extra nutrition in every bite.
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Grilled Touch: For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp first before mixing them into the filling; it adds a tantalizing depth to your melts.
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Mini Melts: Use mini biscuit dough or wonton wrappers for bite-sized versions that are perfect for appetizers or game day snacks!
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Crab Melts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling (shrimp, crab, mozzarella, cream cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and parsley) up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply flatten your biscuits, spoon the prepped filling onto half of them, and top with the other biscuits. Brush with melted butter and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Shrimp Crab Melts ready to impress in just 15 minutes of baking time!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Crab Melts
Room Temperature: Serve your Shrimp Crab Melts warm for the best experience. If left at room temperature, they should be consumed within 2 hours for food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them covered to maintain their moisture and flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cooled melt individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat thawed melts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes until heated through. This restores their crispy texture!
What to Serve with Shrimp Crab Melts?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these seafood delights with complementary dishes that add flavor and variety.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing blend of cabbage and carrots adds crunch and a tangy element that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the melts.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: The sautéed green beans with garlic bring a vibrant green touch and a savory twist, balancing out the flavors perfectly.
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Zesty Lemon Rice: Serve alongside some fluffy lemon rice to soak up any leftover juices, creating a lovely citrusy complement to each bite.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing offers a comforting warmth and a rich tomato flavor that balances the seafood elements beautifully.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the seafood experience, awakening your palate with every sip.
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Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a bright and vibrant addition that complements the rich melts.
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Dessert Parfait: Finish off with a light dessert, such as a fruit parfait, providing a sweet and refreshing end that rounds out your meal deliciously.
Shrimp Crab Melts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for my Shrimp Crab Melts?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for fresh or frozen shrimp that should have a mild ocean scent without any fishy odors. The shrimp should also appear firm and translucent, avoiding any with dark spots. If using frozen, ensure they’re properly thawed for even cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftover Shrimp Crab Melts?
Very good question! Store leftover Shrimp Crab Melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered is essential to maintain their moisture and flavors. When reheating, consider a quick oven warm-up to regain that delightful crunch.
Can I freeze Shrimp Crab Melts, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Shrimp Crab Melts, first let them cool completely. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. For reheating, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then bake them at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to revive their crispy goodness.
What should I do if my shrimp and crab filling is too watery?
Great concern! If your filling seems too watery, you can drain excess liquid from cooked shrimp and crab meat before combining. You could also use a bit more cream cheese to help bind the mixture or add breadcrumbs for extra texture. This will ensure your melts are flavorful without being soggy.
Are these Shrimp Crab Melts suitable for people with seafood allergies?
Unfortunately, this recipe is not suitable for individuals with seafood allergies, as it contains shrimp and crab. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider substituting the seafood with a mix of cheese and vegetables or using deli meats, enhancing flavors with herbs and spices instead. Enjoy the flavors without the seafood!
How do I know when my Shrimp Crab Melts are done baking?
Good question! Your Shrimp Crab Melts are ready when they are golden brown on top, typically around 13–15 minutes of baking at 375°F. Keep an eye on them when they’re nearing the end of the baking time and look for that lovely golden hue and sizzling cheese to signal they’re perfectly baked.
Irresistible Shrimp Crab Melts: A Seafood Delight at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Flatten each refrigerated biscuit slightly on a baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and parsley.
- Spoon the filling onto half of the biscuits and place the remaining biscuits on top, pressing to seal.
- Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 13-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the melts rest for about 2 minutes before slicing or serving whole.