Name: Deviled Crab Melts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 sourdough bread slices; 24 oz. fresh lump crabmeat, drained and picked over; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro; 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil, plus basil leaves for topping; 1 1/2 tsp. lime zest (from 1 lime); 1 tsp. kosher salt; 1/4 tsp. chili powder; 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper; 5 plum tomatoes, cut into 1/4-in.-thick slices; 8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how these Deviled Crab Melts bring together the best of both worlds: fresh crabmeat and a touch of spicy flavor, all melted under a layer of creamy cheese. They’re simple, yet full of flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. I adore how the crispy sourdough contrasts with the creamy crab mixture, and the fresh tomatoes provide a burst of juiciness. The melted Monterey Jack cheese pulls it all together into a perfectly indulgent bite. These are ideal as an appetizer, snack, or light lunch.

Deviled Crab Melts

Ingredients

Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

8 sourdough bread slices
24 oz. fresh lump crabmeat, drained and picked over
1 cup mayonnaise
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil, plus basil leaves for topping
1 1/2 tsp. lime zest (from 1 lime)
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. chili powder
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
5 plum tomatoes, cut into 1/4-in.-thick slices
8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)

Directions

Preheat the broiler and set the oven rack 6 inches from the heat source. Place the sourdough bread slices on a wire rack on a baking sheet, then broil them until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
In a large bowl, gently combine the crabmeat, mayonnaise, cilantro, basil, lime zest, salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper until everything is mixed well.
Spread the crab mixture evenly over the toasted bread slices. Top each with a few slices of plum tomato and then sprinkle with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
Return the pan to the oven and broil for another 3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and starting to brown.
Let the melts cool for about 5 minutes, then top with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Active Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I like experimenting with different ingredients to add a twist to these melts. For example, I’ve tried swapping the Monterey Jack for cheddar, which gives a sharper flavor. You could also try adding a little bit of hot sauce or fresh jalapeños for more heat. If you want to keep it even lighter, try replacing the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a creamy yet tangy touch. As for the bread, while I love the crispy sourdough, you could use ciabatta, French bread, or even English muffins for a different texture.

Storage/Reheating

If you have leftovers (though I rarely do!), you can store the crab melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them by broiling them briefly in the oven for a couple of minutes until the cheese is bubbling again. Just be careful not to overdo it, as the bread could get too crispy. If you want to freeze them, I recommend freezing the crab mixture and bread separately, then assembling and broiling when you’re ready to enjoy them.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh lump crabmeat?

Yes, you can, but I prefer fresh lump crabmeat because it has a sweeter, more delicate flavor. If you’re using canned, make sure to drain it well and pick through it for any shell pieces.

2. Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crab filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Slice the bread and keep it at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble, broil, and enjoy.

3. What other cheeses can I use?

While Monterey Jack is mild and melts beautifully, I’ve also tried Gruyère for a richer flavor or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different texture. Feel free to experiment!

4. What if I don’t have a broiler?

If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the crab melts in the oven at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.

5. Can I serve these as a main dish?

I definitely think you can! While they’re light and perfect as an appetizer, serving them alongside a green salad or some roasted veggies can turn them into a simple and satisfying main dish.

Conclusion

These Deviled Crab Melts are one of my go-to recipes when I want something that’s both flavorful and easy to make. They offer the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and freshness, all topped off with melty cheese on crunchy bread. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just enjoying them for lunch, they’re sure to impress everyone who tries them.