Name: Crab and Swiss Melts Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese; 1 cup crabmeat; 1 garlic clove; salt and pepper; hot pepper sauce; 4 Italian bread; 1½ cups Shredded Swiss Cheese; 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley

Delight in the rich flavors of crab and swiss cheese with this delectable melt recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or a savory snack, these melts combine creamy cream cheese with succulent crabmeat and a hint of spice. Topped with melted swiss cheese and fresh parsley, each bite is a gourmet experience.

Photos of Crab and Swiss Melts Recipe

When gathering ingredients, note that fresh crabmeat might not be commonly found in every household and can be located in the seafood section of the supermarket. Swiss cheese should be available in the dairy aisle, and for an extra kick, a quality hot pepper sauce can usually be found in the condiments section.

Ingredients for Crab and Swiss Melts

Cream cheese: A creamy base that adds richness to the melts.

Crabmeat: Provides a delicate, sweet seafood flavor.

Garlic: Adds a fragrant aroma and a punch of flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Pepper: Adds a slight heat and depth of flavor.

Hot pepper sauce: Introduces a spicy element to balance the creamy textures.

Italian bread: Serves as the sturdy base for the melts.

Swiss cheese: Melts smoothly and adds a nutty, creamy finish.

Parsley: Fresh and bright, it adds a finishing touch of color and flavor.

One reader, Harold Thurman says:

The crab and swiss melts recipe is a delightful treat! The creamy crab mixture paired with melted swiss cheese on crispy bread is simply irresistible. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Harold Thurman

Techniques Required

How to beat cream cheese: Use an electric mixer or a whisk to whip the cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy. How to mix ingredients: Combine the crab, garlic, salt, pepper, and hot sauce with the beaten cream cheese until evenly distributed. How to spread mixture on bread: Use a spatula or a butter knife to evenly spread the crab mixture onto the bread slices. How to bake: Place the prepared bread slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425 degrees F for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. How to sprinkle parsley: Finely chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the baked melts before serving.

How To Make Crab and Swiss Melts

This recipe for crab and swiss melts combines the flavor of crabs with the richness of Swiss cheese for a non-traditional sandwich that’s full of flavor.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozcream cheese,softened
1cupcrabmeat,cooked
1garlic clove,chopped
salt and pepper,to taste
hot pepper sauce,to taste
4Italian bread,thick slices, cut in half
1½cupsshredded Swiss cheese
1tbspfresh parsley,chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Beat the cream cheese in a medium bowl until fluffy.
Mix in crab, garlic, salt, pepper and hot sauce. Spread onto bread slices and top with Swiss cheese. Place on a baking sheet.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven, until the cheese has melted and browned slightly. Sprinkle with parsley, and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 1253.32kcal
Fat: 42.24g
Saturated Fat: 20.97g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.49g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.79g
Carbohydrates: 166.86g
Fiber: 9.23g
Sugar: 5.75g
Protein: 48.93g
Cholesterol: 132.37mg
Sodium: 2389.07mg
Calcium: 666.82mg
Potassium: 618.89mg
Iron: 10.22mg
Vitamin A: 307.84µg
Vitamin C: 22.12mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

For a smoother and more flavorful spread, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beating it. This will make it easier to mix with the crabmeat and other ingredients, resulting in a more cohesive and creamy texture.

How to Save Time on Making This Recipe

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and chop garlic and parsley in advance to streamline the process.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded Swiss cheese to save time on grating.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the crab mixture.

Use canned crabmeat: Canned crabmeat is a convenient alternative to fresh, reducing prep time.

Soften cream cheese quickly: Microwave the cream cheese for 15-20 seconds to soften it faster.

Assemble on a baking sheet: Prepare the bread slices directly on the baking sheet to minimize cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Crab and Swiss Melts Recipe

cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess, making it a healthier alternative.
crabmeat - Substitute with imitation crab: Imitation crab is more affordable and widely available, offering a similar taste and texture.
garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic for convenience and a longer shelf life.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile, often used in lighter-colored dishes.
hot pepper sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha offers a similar heat level with a touch of sweetness, making it a versatile substitute.
italian bread - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread has a similar texture and can add a slight tanginess to the dish.
shredded swiss cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere cheese has a similar melting quality and flavor profile, making it an excellent substitute.
fresh parsley - Substitute with dried parsley: Dried parsley can be used in place of fresh parsley, though you may need to use less due to its concentrated flavor.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Use artisan bread: Opt for a high-quality Italian bread with a rustic crust to elevate the base of the dish.
Create a creamy base: Beat cream cheese until fluffy and spread it evenly on the bread slices, ensuring a smooth and luxurious texture.
Incorporate fresh crabmeat: Mix in crabmeat with the cream cheese for a rich, seafood flavor that stands out.
Add aromatic garlic: Finely mince a garlic clove and blend it into the mixture to enhance the overall aroma and taste.
Season to perfection: Add salt, pepper, and a dash of hot pepper sauce to balance the flavors and add a subtle kick.
Top with shredded Swiss cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the crab mixture to create a gooey, melted topping.
Bake to golden perfection: Place the prepared bread slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425 degrees F for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the melts for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve with elegance: Plate the crab and Swiss melts on a stylish serving dish, perhaps with a side of mixed greens or a light citrus salad to complement the richness of the melts.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven: Used to preheat to 425 degrees F and bake the crab and swiss melts until the cheese has melted and browned slightly.
Medium bowl: Used to beat the cream cheese until fluffy and mix in the crab, garlic, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
Electric mixer: Helpful for beating the cream cheese until it becomes fluffy.
Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic clove for mixing into the crab and cream cheese mixture.
Baking sheet: Used to place the bread slices topped with the crab mixture and swiss cheese for baking.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the crab and cream cheese mixture onto the bread slices.
Cheese grater: Used to shred the swiss cheese if it is not pre-shredded.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the crabmeat and shredded swiss cheese accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, pepper, and hot pepper sauce.
Chopping board: Used to chop the fresh parsley for sprinkling on top of the melts.
Knife: Used to chop the fresh parsley and to mince the garlic if a garlic press is not available.

How to Store / Freeze This Dish

Refrigeration:
- Allow the crab and swiss melts to cool completely at room temperature.
- Wrap each melt individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
- Place the wrapped melts in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Cool the crab and swiss melts thoroughly after baking.
- Wrap each melt tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no air pockets.
- For extra protection, wrap again with aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe resealable bag.
- Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating from Refrigeration:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Unwrap the crab and swiss melts and place them on a baking sheet.
- Heat in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though the bread may not be as crispy.
Reheating from Frozen:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Remove the crab and swiss melts from the freezer and unwrap them.
- Place the melts on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, removing the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
- Ensure the melts are heated through before serving.
Tips for Best Results:
- When freezing, consider adding a layer of parchment paper between the crab and swiss melts to prevent them from sticking together.
- For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
- If you notice any excess moisture after thawing, pat the melts dry with a paper towel before reheating.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This lower temperature ensures that your crab and swiss melts reheat evenly without drying out.
Place the leftover melts on a baking sheet. If you have a parchment paper or silicone baking mat, use it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cover the melts loosely with aluminum foil. This helps retain moisture and prevents the swiss cheese from over-browning.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes. Check periodically to ensure the melts are heated through and the cheese is melty and bubbly.
If you prefer a crispier texture, remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating. This will allow the bread to regain some of its original crunch.
For a quicker method, you can use a toaster oven. Set it to 350 degrees F and follow the same steps as above. This method is perfect for reheating smaller portions.
If you're in a hurry, the microwave can be used, though it's not the best option for maintaining texture. Place the melts on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be cautious, as the cream cheese can become too hot and the bread may become soggy.
For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top after reheating to revive the fresh flavors.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this crab and swiss melts recipe is that it combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the delicate flavor of crabmeat, creating a luxurious and satisfying dish.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this crab and swiss melts recipe, it scores a solid 7 out of 10. The primary expense comes from the crabmeat and swiss cheese, which can be pricey. However, the other ingredients like cream cheese, garlic, and Italian bread are relatively affordable. For a household of four, the approximate cost would be around $20-$25, making it a reasonable yet slightly indulgent option for a delightful meal.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This crab and swiss melts recipe leans towards the indulgent side. The use of cream cheese and shredded swiss cheese adds a significant amount of saturated fat and calories. While crabmeat is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, the overall dish is high in fat and sodium, especially with the addition of hot pepper sauce and salt.

Substitute low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for regular cream cheese to reduce saturated fat.
Use whole grain or multigrain bread instead of Italian bread to increase fiber content.
Opt for reduced-fat swiss cheese or a smaller amount of a strong-flavored cheese like sharp cheddar to cut down on fat while maintaining flavor.
Add more vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes to increase vitamins and minerals.
Reduce or eliminate added salt and rely on herbs and spices like dill, chives, or paprika for flavor enhancement.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This crab and Swiss melt recipe is a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors. The cream cheese provides a rich base, while the crab adds a touch of sweetness. The garlic and hot pepper sauce introduce a subtle kick, perfectly balanced by the mild, nutty Swiss cheese. Baking at 425 degrees ensures a crispy, golden finish. The fresh parsley garnish adds a burst of color and freshness. Overall, it's a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a quick appetizer or a light meal.

Enhance Your Crab and Swiss Melts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Imagine the crisp, tender asparagus spears, kissed by the oven's heat, and brightened with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. This vibrant side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy crab and swiss melts.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Mango Avocado Salsa: Dive into a tropical medley of mango, avocado, and a hint of cilantro. This salsa brings a burst of color and a sweet, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory crab and swiss melts.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a velvety bowl of butternut squash soup. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness provide a comforting balance to the rich, cheesy goodness of the crab and swiss melts.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Picture golden potatoes, roasted to perfection with a generous coating of garlic and parmesan. These crispy bites add a delightful crunch and a savory depth to your appetizer spread.

Mixed Berry Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: Mixed Berry Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: Envision a vibrant mix of berries, drizzled with a zesty honey-lime dressing. This refreshing salad offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the rich flavors of the crab and swiss melts.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish

Shrimp And Gruyère Toasts: Imagine the creamy goodness of gruyère cheese melting over succulent shrimp on a crispy slice of baguette. A touch of lemon zest and a sprinkle of chives elevate this appetizer to gourmet status.

Spinach Artichoke Dip Bites: Transform the classic spinach artichoke dip into bite-sized delights. Nestled in mini phyllo cups, this creamy, cheesy mixture is perfect for any gathering. A dash of paprika on top adds a hint of smokiness.

Bacon And Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms: Juicy mushrooms stuffed with a savory blend of bacon, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs. These little bites are baked to perfection, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Smoked Salmon Crostini: Crispy crostini topped with silky smoked salmon, a dollop of cream cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh dill. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing, making this an elegant appetizer.

Bruschetta With Tomato And Basil: A classic Italian appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Simple yet bursting with flavor.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts for This Recipe

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Marinate the chicken in a zesty blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite in every piece. Serve alongside a vibrant quinoa salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that bursts with freshness and zest.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. Hollow out colorful bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a comforting and satisfying main course that pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent Chocolate Lava Cake. This dessert features a warm, gooey center that flows out like molten lava when you cut into it. The exterior is perfectly baked to a soft, cake-like texture, creating a delightful contrast. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty and refreshing flavors of Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The buttery, flaky crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is sure to brighten up your table. Serve chilled, and for an extra touch, add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few raspberries on top.

Why trust this Crab and Swiss Melts Recipe:

This recipe combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the delicate flavor of crabmeat, creating a luxurious melt. The addition of garlic, hot pepper sauce, and fresh parsley adds layers of complexity and freshness. Topped with gooey shredded swiss cheese and served on crispy Italian bread, this dish is both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal, it’s a surefire way to delight your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Crab and Swiss Melts recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

Can I use canned crabmeat for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use canned crabmeat. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing it with the other ingredients.

What type of hot pepper sauce should I use?

You can use any hot pepper sauce you like. I usually go for something like Tabasco, but feel free to use your favorite brand or whatever you have on hand.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While Italian bread works great, you can use any bread you prefer, like sourdough, French bread, or even a baguette.

How do I know when the melts are done baking?

The melts are done when the cheese is melted and has a slight golden-brown color. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes in the oven.

Can I prepare the crab mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just spread it on the bread and add the Swiss cheese right before baking.