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Air Fryer Crab Melts

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Air Fryer Crab Melts — Who doesn’t love a good crab melt? This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and easy to make in your air fryer.

Crab meat is sandwiched between two cheese slices and toasted in the air fryer until melted and golden brown. Serve with a side of tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Air Fryer Crab Melts are amazing! I made a batch for my kids today for a great quick lunch or snack!

Crab melts are amazing, and if you have ever had a crab sandwich with a great topping, they are so good and addicting.

I love a great and easy sandwich, and these crab melts prepared and cooked in the air fryer fit the bill.

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Sandwiches, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER HARDEE’S BIG HOT HAM ‘N’ CHEESE, AIR FRYER PATTY MELT, AIR FRYER BLACKBERRY & GOAT CHEESE SANDWICHES, and AIR FRYER TURKEY CLUB SANDWICH.

What Are Crab Melts?

Crab melts, like tuna melts, are simple sandwiches that are added on top of bread and then heated until the cheese melts, and you get a great open-faced sandwich.

A crab melt usually contains lump crab, mayonnaise, diced celery, and onions and is smoothed with cheese. Or the cheese is mixed in, depending on how you prepare it.

While I used English Muffins today, these are usually prepared on bread. Any bread will suffice.

Why You Will Love Air-Fried Crab Melts

You will love Air-Fried Crab Melts for several delicious reasons:

Irresistible Flavor: Air-frying the crab melts results in a crispy and golden-brown exterior, while the inside is filled with a delectable mixture of crab meat, cheese, and savory seasonings. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible.
Quick and Convenient: Air frying is a fast and convenient cooking method. You can enjoy these crab melts in just a fraction of the time it would take to bake them in the oven.
Healthier Option: Air frying requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. You can savor the indulgence of crab melts with fewer calories and less grease.
Customizable: You can customize your crab melts with your favorite ingredients and seasonings. Add a touch of spice with hot sauce, experiment with different cheese varieties, or throw in some diced veggies for extra freshness.
Perfectly Melted Cheese: Air frying ensures that the cheese inside the crab melts and becomes wonderfully gooey and perfectly melted without overcooking or burning.
Great for Parties: Air-fried crab Melts make an excellent appetizer or snack. They are easy to prepare in batches and will surely be crowd-pleasers at gatherings.
Restaurant-Quality Results: You can achieve restaurant-quality results right at home with your air fryer. The crab melts will have that gourmet look and taste without deep frying.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying snack or an appetizer to impress guests, Air-Fried Crab Melts delivers flavor, convenience, and that delightful crunch. Enjoy these delectable treats as a savory indulgence!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Crab Melts

Air Fryer Crab Melts are a delightful seafood treat that combines sweet and savory crab flavors with the richness of melted cheese.

These mouthwatering morsels are quick and easy to prepare in your air fryer, making them a perfect appetizer or snack option for seafood lovers.

Ingredients Needed For Blackstone Crab Cakes

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Celery and Onions: Lends a mild onion flavor and a hint of freshness to the filling.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise binds the crab meat mixture, adding creaminess and tanginess.
Salt and Black Pepper: Adds some flavor.
Tabasco Sauce: Enhances the savory umami notes in the filling.
Crab Meat: Use high-quality lump crab for the best flavor and texture. It provides a sweet and salty taste that’s perfect for crab melts.
Shredded Cheese: Opt for a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss to create a creamy, gooey, and cheesy interior.
English Muffins or Bread: Choose your preferred base, whether English muffins or slices of bread. These will serve as the vehicle for your crab melt.

How To Make Air Fryer Crab Melts

To make delicious Air Fryer Crab Melts, follow these simple steps:

Mix the cream crab meat, mayonnaise, diced celery, diced onions, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese.

Then, separate your English muffins. Spread the crabmeat mixture on top of the English Muffin. As you make them, place them in your air fryer basket or on your air fryer tray.

Set the temperature to 300 degrees F for 5-7 minutes. (air fryer setting)

Recipe Variations

Spicy Crab Melts: Add a kick of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce into the crab mixture. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before air frying for an extra spicy touch.
Avocado Crab Melts: Enhance the creaminess by adding slices of ripe avocado to your crab melts. Avocado pairs wonderfully with crab and cheese.
Bacon Crab Melts: For a smoky flavor, include crispy bacon bits in the crab mixture. Bacon and crab create a savory combination that’s hard to resist.
Seafood Medley: Experiment with different seafood varieties. Combine crab meat with shrimp, scallops, or lobster for a luxurious seafood medley in your melts.
Herb-Infused: Elevate the flavor with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives. These herbs will add a burst of freshness to your crab mixture.
Different Bases: Instead of English muffins, try using other bread options like baguette slices, croissants, or even mini pita pockets to create unique crab melt variations.
Cheese Choices: Get creative with your cheese selection. While cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Swiss are popular choices, you can explore other options like Gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for diverse flavors.
Dipping Sauces: Serve your crab melts with a variety of dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, spicy remoulade, or a zesty lemon-butter sauce for an extra layer of taste.
Open-Faced Crab Melts: Instead of sandwich-style crab melts, create open-faced versions by spreading the crab mixture on toasted bread or baguette slices and topping with cheese. Air fry until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Mini Crab Melts: Make bite-sized crab melts by using mini English muffins or small bread rounds. These are perfect for parties and appetizer platters.

Mix and match these variations to suit your taste preferences and get creative with your Air Fryer Crab Melts. They offer endless possibilities for customization and are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delectable snack.

Pro Tips

Choose Quality Crab Meat: Opt for lump crab meat or jumbo lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor. Check for any shell fragments and remove them before using.
Drain Excess Liquid: Ensure your crab meat is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the filling. Pat it dry with paper towels if needed.
Customize Seasonings: Adjust the seasonings in the crab mixture to your taste. You can increase or decrease the amount of lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and spices like Old Bay according to your preference.
Butter the Muffins: Brushing the English muffins with melted butter before toasting them adds a rich and crispy texture to the final dish. It also prevents them from becoming soggy.
Even Cheese Distribution: When adding shredded cheese on top of the crab mixture, make sure it covers the entire surface evenly. This ensures every bite has that delicious cheesy goodness.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to the specified temperature in the recipe. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.
Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the crab melts in the air fryer basket, make sure there’s some space between them to allow for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the model and brand of your air fryer. Monitor the melts closely during the cooking process to prevent over-browning.
Serve Immediately: Crab melts are at their best when served hot and fresh. Enjoy them right out of the air fryer for the ultimate taste and texture.
Experiment with Garnishes: Get creative with garnishes like fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of hot sauce to enhance the presentation and flavor.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create perfectly cooked and flavorful Air Fryer Crab Melts that are sure to impress your family and guests. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy crab filling, melted cheese, and crispy English muffins with confidence.

Faq’s

Can I use imitation crab meat for crab melts? While you can use imitation crab meat, it won’t provide the same flavor and texture as real lump crab meat. If you choose to use imitation crab, ensure it’s well-drained and consider adding extra seasonings to enhance the taste.

Can I prepare the crab mixture in advance? Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the crab melts. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

What’s the best type of bread for crab melts? English muffins are a classic choice for crab melts, but you can use other types of bread such as baguette slices, ciabatta rolls, or even croissants for a unique twist.

Can I freeze crab melts for later? Crab melts are best enjoyed fresh and may not retain their optimal texture if frozen and reheated. It’s recommended to consume them shortly after cooking for the best taste and consistency.

What can I serve with crab melts? Crab melts pair well with a variety of side dishes, including a simple green salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a cup of creamy tomato soup.

Can I make crab melts without an air fryer? Yes, you can prepare crab melts in a conventional oven or toaster oven. Simply follow the same assembly instructions and bake them until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.

How do I prevent the crab mixture from being too runny? To avoid excess moisture in the crab mixture, make sure to drain the crab meat thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels if needed. You can also adjust the amount of mayonnaise and other wet ingredients to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of cheese for crab melts? Absolutely! While the recipe typically calls for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese, you can experiment with other cheese varieties like Gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.

What’s a good dipping sauce for crab melts? Crab melts are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, tartar sauce, or a zesty remoulade for an extra layer of flavor.

Can I make mini crab melts for parties or appetizers? Yes, you can create mini crab melts by using smaller bread rounds or mini English muffins. They make great bite-sized appetizers for gatherings and events.

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