Shrimp and crab biscuit melts are the ultimate indulgence for seafood enthusiasts. These flaky, cheesy bites combine the delicate flavors of fresh shrimp and lump crab meat, creating a delectable fusion that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a dinner party or enjoying them as a cozy weekend meal, these Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts are a surefire way to satisfy your cravings.
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The Appeal of Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts
Seafood melts offer a unique and satisfying dining experience, blending the richness of the seafood with the comforting warmth of melted cheese. What sets the Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts apart is the use of fluffy, buttery biscuits as the foundation, providing a sturdy yet tender base for the creamy, savory filling. The combination of shrimp, crab, and a blend of cheeses creates a flavor profile that’s both indulgent and irresistible.
Ingredients for Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts
- 1 can refrigerated flaky biscuits (8 count)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and flaked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
The key ingredients in this recipe are the fresh shrimp and lump crab meat, which lend a delightful seafood flavor to the melts. The mozzarella cheese provides a smooth, melty texture, while the cream cheese and mayonnaise create a creamy, cohesive filling. The Old Bay seasoning, a classic blend of spices, adds a distinctive and tasty kick to the overall dish. Fresh parsley brings a touch of brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the seafood and cheese.
Preparation Steps for Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts
Preparing these Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. By following the steps carefully and ensuring all the ingredients are prepped and ready to go, you can easily assemble and bake these delectable melts in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: To 375°F.
- Prepare Biscuits: Flatten each biscuit slightly on a baking sheet.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, flaked crab meat, mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble: Spoon the filling onto half of the flattened biscuits. Top with the remaining biscuits and pinch the edges to seal.
- Brush & Bake: Brush the tops of the biscuits with the melted butter. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and puffed.
- Serve: Allow the Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts to rest for 2 minutes before serving.
By following these easy steps, you can create a batch of these delightful seafood melts that are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings.
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts
Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making them a versatile option for any occasion. Consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad, crispy roasted potatoes, or a simple coleslaw to balance the richness of the melts. For a more indulgent pairing, try serving them with a creamy seafood chowder or a zesty lemon-dill dipping sauce.
These melts also make an excellent appetizer for a seafood-themed dinner party. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear as your guests savor the delectable combination of flaky biscuits, tender shrimp, and succulent crab.
Nutritional Information for Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts
Shrimp and crab are excellent sources of lean protein, providing essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. While the melts do contain some indulgent ingredients like cheese and mayonnaise, you can make adjustments to the recipe to create a healthier version. For example, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat versions of the cheese and mayonnaise, or even substitute Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-calorie alternative.
Ultimately, the Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, with the seafood providing valuable nutritional benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts gluten-free?
To make Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts gluten-free, you can substitute regular biscuits with gluten-free biscuit mixes available in stores or make your own using gluten-free flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as shrimp, crab, and any seasonings, are gluten-free as well. Always check labels to confirm that there are no hidden gluten ingredients. Additionally, using gluten-free breadcrumbs can add a nice texture to the filling if desired.
Can I use canned crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat for Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts. Canned crab is a convenient option and can still provide good flavor. However, fresh or frozen crab meat tends to have a better texture and more robust taste. If using canned crab, drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which may affect the overall consistency of your melts.
What can I use instead of Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay seasoning on hand or prefer a different flavor profile, you can create your own blend using a mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme. Alternatively, you can use Cajun seasoning or a simple combination of salt and pepper with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh taste. Adjust the amounts based on your preference for spice and flavor intensity.
How can I add more vegetables to the filling for Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts?
To incorporate more vegetables into your Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts, consider adding finely chopped bell peppers, green onions, or spinach to the filling mixture. Sauté the vegetables lightly before mixing them in to soften them and enhance their flavors. Be mindful not to add too much moisture, as this can make the filling too wet. Aim for about 1/2 cup of vegetables for a balanced filling.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
- Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Jalapeño Stuffed Meatloaf
- Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Pancakes
Conclusion
Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts are a delightful and indulgent seafood-based dish that will captivate your taste buds. The combination of tender shrimp, succulent crab, and melted cheese nestled between flaky biscuits creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or enjoying them as a main course, these melts are a fantastic way to celebrate the wonderful flavors of the sea. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts!
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Indulge in Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts for a Delicious Treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Description
Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts are a delightful and indulgent seafood-based dish that will captivate your taste buds. The combination of tender shrimp, succulent crab, and melted cheese nestled between flaky biscuits creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated flaky biscuits (8 count)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and flaked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Flatten each biscuit slightly on a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, flaked crab meat, mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon the filling onto half of the flattened biscuits. Top with the remaining biscuits and pinch the edges to seal.
- Brush the tops of the biscuits with the melted butter. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and puffed.
- Allow the Shrimp and Crab Biscuit Melts to rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
These melts pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 melt
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg