Description

Craving something cheesy, savory, and packed with fresh seafood flavor? This Quick and Easy Maryland Crab Melt is exactly what you need! Sweet lump crab meat is mixed with a creamy, flavorful dressing, then piled onto toasted bread and smothered with gooey melted cheese. It’s a satisfying, coastal-inspired meal that’s perfect for a speedy lunch, light dinner, or impressive appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Crab Mixture:

8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp sour cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp green onions, finely chopped
¼ cup celery, finely diced (optional for crunch)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

4 slices hearty bread (sourdough or English muffins work great)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss for a milder flavor)
1 tbsp butter (for toasting bread)

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Old Bay seasoning
Lemon wedges

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crab Mixture
In a mixing bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, green onions, and celery if using.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Be gentle to keep the crab lumps intact for the best texture.

Step 2: Toast the Bread
Preheat your broiler to high.
Butter one side of each bread slice lightly and toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until just golden.

Step 3: Assemble the Crab Melts
Remove the toasted bread from the oven.
Spoon the crab mixture evenly over each slice.
Top generously with shredded cheese.

Step 4: Broil the Crab Melts
Return the assembled crab melts to the oven.
Broil for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Watch closely to prevent burning!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a pinch of Old Bay if desired.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Use Good Crab Meat – Fresh lump crab meat delivers the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overmix – Gently fold ingredients to keep the crab light and tender.
Keep an Eye on the Broiler – Cheese melts fast under high heat.
Toast the Bread First – Prevents sogginess and adds a nice crunch.
Customize the Cheese – Try mozzarella, Swiss, or even pepper jack for different flavor twists.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American (Maryland Coastal Style)