Description

If you’re craving something cheesy, savory, and bursting with seafood flavor, this Quick and Easy Maryland Crab Melt is the answer. Packed with sweet lump crab meat, creamy mayo, zesty Old Bay seasoning, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a coastal classic that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Served hot and bubbly on toasted bread, this simple open-faced sandwich delivers big flavors in just minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale

1 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
1 green onion, finely chopped
¼ cup celery, finely chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 slices of bread (English muffins, sourdough, or sandwich rolls work great)
2 tbsp butter (for toasting bread)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or paprika

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, green onion, celery, lemon juice, salt, and pepper
Gently fold everything together until well combined—be careful not to break up the crab too much

Step 2: Toast the Bread
3. Preheat your broiler to high
4. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice and place on a baking sheet, buttered side up
5. Broil for 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp—watch closely to avoid burning

Step 3: Assemble the Crab Melts
6. Remove the toasted bread from the oven
7. Spoon the crab mixture evenly onto each slice
8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese

Step 4: Broil Until Bubbly
9. Return the tray to the broiler and cook for 2–4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden brown top
10. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or a dash of paprika if desired

Step 5: Serve Hot
11. Serve the crab melts immediately while they’re hot and cheesy
12. Enjoy with chips, a side salad, or a cup of soup

Notes

Use Good Quality Crab Meat – Lump crab adds the best texture and flavor
Don’t Overmix – Gently fold the ingredients to keep the crab intact
Customize Your Cheese – Try Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone for a different twist
Crisp the Bread First – Toasting prevents the melts from becoming soggy
Broil Carefully – Keep a close eye to avoid burning the cheese or bread

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Cuisine: American