Crabbies Recipe

Crab meat: The star of the dish, providing a delicate seafood flavor.

Cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture and sharp taste.

Mayonnaise: Helps bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.

Garlic powder: Infuses the mixture with a subtle garlic flavor.

Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the overall taste with its savory, umami notes.

French bread: Serves as the crispy base for the crab mixture.

When preparing the crab meat, ensure it is thoroughly drained and patted dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the mixture adhere better to the toasted french bread and prevent it from becoming soggy. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, consider using freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded, as it melts more smoothly and has a richer taste.

• fresh or canned crab meat - Substitute with imitation crab meat: Imitation crab meat is a more affordable option and has a similar texture and flavor.

• fresh or canned crab meat - Substitute with cooked shrimp: Cooked shrimp can provide a similar seafood flavor and texture.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a milder flavor and melts well, making it a good alternative.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack is creamy and melts smoothly, offering a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture while being lower in fat.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream offers a similar creamy consistency and tangy taste.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more robust and aromatic garlic flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can add a different but complementary flavor profile.

• worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor and saltiness.

• worcestershire sauce - Substitute with balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that can complement the dish.

• toasted french bread - Substitute with toasted baguette slices: Baguette slices have a similar texture and can hold toppings well.

• toasted french bread - Substitute with toasted whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread offers a healthier option with a different but pleasant flavor and texture.

• Allow the crabbies to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• Place the cooled crabbies in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the crab meat and cheddar cheese fresh.
• For freezing, wrap each crabbie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they maintain their shape and flavor.
• Place the wrapped crabbies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. This extends the shelf life while preserving the deliciousness of the crab meat mixture.
• To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen crabbies on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. This brings back the delightful texture and taste.
• Alternatively, reheat in a toaster oven for a quick and crispy result. This method is perfect for a speedy snack.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread chewy and the cheese rubbery. This ensures the best eating experience.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover crabbies on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  4. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they are heated through and the cheese is bubbly again.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 2 minutes if you want a crispier top.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the crabbies directly on the toaster oven rack or on a small baking sheet.
  3. Heat for about 8-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning.
  4. Ensure the cheese is melted and the crabbies are warmed through.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the crabbies on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Be cautious as the cheese can become very hot.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Place the crabbies in the skillet, cheese side up.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the crabbies heat evenly.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crabbies are warmed through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the crabbies in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook.
  4. The cheese should be bubbly and the crabbies should be hot.

• Oven: Used to bake the crab mixture on the toasted french bread slices until golden and bubbly.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the crab meat, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.

• Baking sheet: Used to hold the bread slices while they bake in the oven.

• Spatula: Used to spread the crab mixture evenly on the toasted french bread slices.

• Toaster: Used to toast the french bread slices before adding the crab mixture.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the crab meat, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Opt for canned crab meat: Using canned crab meat can be a quicker alternative to fresh crab meat without compromising much on flavor.

Mix in advance: Prepare the crab mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Pre-toast the bread: Toast the french bread slices in advance and store them in an airtight container to save time during assembly.

Use a toaster oven: A toaster oven can preheat faster and cook the crabbies more quickly than a conventional oven.