Creamy Crab Delight: Easy English Muffin Recipe
Welcome to one of my all-time favorite recipes, Creamed Crab on English Muffins! As a chef who specializes in British cuisine, I’ve had the pleasure of experimenting with countless recipes throughout my career. Despite having cooked up some delicious meals in the past, this particular recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s been a family favorite for years and I’m excited to share it with you today.
Nowadays, we’re all pretty busy and it can be difficult to find time to make a gourmet meal. But trust me when I say that this dish is worth the effort. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a decadent and flavorful meal that will impress your guests (or just yourself!).
The combination of tender crab meat, creamy sauce, and fluffy English muffins creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. And the best part? This recipe can easily be made ahead of time and reheated without losing any of its original taste.
So let’s get started on this recipe that’s sure to become one of your new favorites!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you in the mood for a delicious, hearty meal that brings the flavors of the sea to your kitchen? Look no further than this Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe!
Not only is this recipe incredibly flavorful, but it’s also easy to put together, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. The combination of savory crab meat and creamy sauce creates a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. And when placed on top of toasted English muffins, every bite becomes a tantalizing explosion of textures and flavors.
But what truly sets this dish apart is its versatility. Whether served as an appetizer, light lunch or dinner, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It can be enjoyed with a side salad, fresh vegetables or even paired with your favorite glass of wine for an elevated epicurean experience.
Plus, this Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe allows for plenty of substitutions and variations – from adding green peas or sliced mushrooms, to experimenting with different types of cheese spreads or spices like paprika and crushed red pepper flakes. And for those looking for a healthier option, imitation crab can be used as a substitute for the real thing without compromising on flavor.
So why not give this Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe a try? Perfect for any occasion and adaptable to any taste preference, it’s sure to impress both you and your guests.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these creamy crab melts on English muffins:
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Pinch of dry mustard
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 6 English muffins, split and toasted
- 1 garlic clove, halved
- 1 can (4 oz) mushroom stems and pieces, drained and chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery rib, finely chopped
- 1 jar (2 oz) diced pimientos, drained
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Dash of hot pepper sauce
- Dash of garlic powder
- 1 pound cooked crabmeat
- 3/4 cup frozen green peas
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
These ingredients will make for a delicious batch of cheesy crab melts that you can either share with your loved ones or keep all to yourself. Keep reading to check out the step-by-step instructions on how to turn these ingredients into a hearty meal!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. In this section, I’ll outline the step-by-step process to get you to a delicious creamed crab on English muffins recipe.
Preparation
-
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
-
Start by melting 1/2 cup of butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
-
Add in the finely chopped onions, celery, and mushrooms and saute until they soften.
-
Once the vegetables are soft, add in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and stir until it’s fully incorporated.
-
Slowly add in 2 cups of milk and stir constantly until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
-
Add in 1/4 tsp of nutmeg, 2 tsp of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tbsp of dry sherry into the saucepan.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Fold-in the creamed crab mixture into the sauce along with the canned diced pimientos and green peas.
-
Set aside approximately a ½ cup of this creamy crab mixture for later use.
-
Now that you’ve slaved over the stove let’s assemble our recipe!
How To Assemble The Creamy Crab Mixture
-
Take your fresh English Muffins and slice them in half lengthwise.
-
On each half portion of the English muffin, apply a generous amount of garlic salt followed by a heaping tablespoon of creamy crab mixture.
-
Finally, top each half portion with grated cheddar cheese and sprinkle with paprika or red pepper flakes on top to give an additional kick to your dish!
-
Place your creamy crab topped English muffins onto a baking dish lined with parchment paper or a greased baking sheet.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Finish
-
Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish.
-
Serve hot as a delicious appetizer or pair it with a side salad to make it a full meal.
Your flavorful creamed crab on English muffins recipe is complete!
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to cooking, substituting ingredients is an art in itself. Whether you’re trying to accommodate dietary restrictions, or just looking to switch things up a bit, there are several ways to modify this Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe.
For a vegetarian option, omit the crab meat and substitute it with mushroom or green peas. For a vegan-friendly version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based milk alternative.
If you’re not a fan of spicy food, eliminate the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder taste. For those who want to add some extra heat, increase or add more red pepper flakes. Alternatively, use paprika instead for a smoky flavor.
For an added twist, include other seafood options such as shrimp or lobster meat to your crab mixture. A dash of dry sherry can also add depth and complexity to this dish.
If you prefer a crunchy texture in your melted cheese toppings, swap English muffins with sliced bread instead. Also, try experimenting with different types of cheese such as cheddar or feta for new and exciting taste sensations.
Ultimately, don’t be afraid to explore and make modifications until you find the perfect balance of flavors that suit your preferences.
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve made these delicious Creamed Crab on English Muffins, it’s time to impress your guests with a perfect serving and pairing. These crab melts are delightfully creamy, so they pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or some fresh raw vegetables like cucumber and carrot sticks. The coolness of the veggies compliments the warm sandwich that is packed full of flavor.
If you want to take your pairing game to the next level and make it an extra special occasion, try serving this alongside a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing dry sherry. The light, fruity flavors of these wines balance well with the richness and tanginess of the crabmeat mixture.
You can also create a delightful side dish by adding some sautéed mushrooms, peas or even some roasted pimientos. This will offer an added layer of depth to the mix of flavors in the dish. The nutty, earthy flavor of mushroom combined with sweet peas and roasted sweet pimientos adds great harmony to the dish.
In terms of presentation, you can serve these Creamed Crab on English Muffins in a variety of ways; as an appetizer or as part of a brunch spread. You could also make mini Crabmeat English muffins and serve them as ‘Crabbies’, making them ideal for hot crab appetizers at cocktail parties or get-togethers.
Overall, Creamed Crab on English Muffins is an incredibly versatile dish that can be served in many different ways depending on what best suits your tastes and the occasion. Whether lunch, breakfast or an appetizer – this recipe is sure to please everyone who tries it!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the advantages of this Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. If you’re planning to serve it as an appetizer for a party, you can prepare it a day or two in advance so that you can focus on other dishes on the day of the event.
To store the creamed crab mixture, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat it, place it in a saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally until it comes back to the desired temperature. Be sure to add a little bit of milk or cream to loosen the mixture as it may become too thick upon cooling.
The English muffins can also be prepped ahead of time. You can split them, wrap individually in cling film, and store in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to use them, simply defrost thoroughly before reheating.
As with all make-ahead recipes, keep in mind that reheating may cause some changes in texture or flavor. Thus, I recommend making only what’s necessary and fresh batches for your next serving. But worry not, as this Creamed Crab on English Muffins dish can be easily remade from scratch anytime!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you know how to make my creamy crab on English muffins, let me share with you some tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.
1. Use the freshest crab meat possible. Fresh crab meat has a sweet and delicate flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce. Avoid using canned or imitation crab as they don’t have the same taste and texture.
2. Don’t overcook the crab meat. Overcooking the crab meat will make it tough and rubbery. As soon as the crab is cooked through, remove it from heat, set aside and add it to your sauce at the end.
3. Use a good quality dry sherry in the recipe. A good quality dry sherry adds complexity to the sauce; however, if you cannot find one, you can substitute with dry white wine.
4. Keep an eye on your roux. Be sure to cook your roux until it’s golden brown, but be careful not to burn it or else it will turn bitter.
5. Add Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor. Worcestershire sauce adds another layer of complexity and umami to the cream sauce, giving it a unique depth of flavor that complements the crab perfectly.
6. Add some heat with paprika or red pepper flakes. If you prefer some spiciness in your dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to your cream sauce, this also gives a nice color and aroma.
7. Top with freshly grated cheese before broiling. For ultimate indulgence, sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top of each English muffin before broiling in the oven for an extra cheesy crust.
Follow these tips and tricks for perfect results every time!
FAQ
Now that you know everything about the Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe, it’s time to address some of the most common questions related to its preparation. Cooking can be challenging, and I want to make sure you have a smooth experience while following this recipe. In this section, I will provide answers to the most frequently asked questions and troubleshoot some possible issues you may encounter. So, let’s get started!
What is a crumpet called in America?
Crumpets are a beloved snack in the UK and other former British territories, often enjoyed with breakfast or afternoon tea. On the other hand, English muffins bear a resemblance to their British counterpart but were actually invented by a British immigrant in America.
How is a crumpet different from an English muffin?
When it comes to making crumpets and English muffins, they have some noticeable differences in terms of their ingredients and resulting texture. Crumpets rely on a batter that is more fluid than English muffins, and they do not contain yeast. Once cooked, crumpets are served whole. On the other hand, English muffins have a denser texture that is more similar to bread. They are toasted on both sides and are typically split before eating.
What do British people call English muffins?
In the UK, muffins are commonly known as English muffins to distinguish them from sweet American-style muffins. They are often enjoyed alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee and are sometimes served during the traditional British afternoon tea experience in various UK hotels.
What should I put on my English muffin?
Start your morning off right with a variety of nutrient-dense toppings to add flavor and nutrition to your breakfast. From eggs and vegetables to low-fat cheese to lean meats, there are plenty of options to choose from for a filling and delicious meal. Consider adding a poached or scrambled egg atop an English muffin, or try some part-skim mozzarella or low-fat cottage cheese for a boost of protein. Peanut butter is also a tasty and satisfying addition to your breakfast spread. Ready to fuel up for the day ahead? Let’s get cooking!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make. With its creamy blend of ingredients, the English muffins soak up all the flavors for a savory treat that will satisfy your taste buds. The delicate crab meat combined with the rich sauce and toppings of paprika, fresh parsley, pimientos, and green peas make a tantalizing treat that is perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is also versatile, as you can easily substitute or vary the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. You can also pair the Creamed Crab on English Muffins with various side dishes or beverages for a well-rounded meal.
Furthermore, this recipe is perfect for serving at any event. Whether it’s a casual gathering with friends and family or a formal dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and reheated later without compromising their delicious taste.
So what are you waiting for? Try out this Creamed Crab on English Muffins recipe today and enjoy its creamy and savory goodness. With its ease of preparation and mouthwatering flavor, it might just become your new favorite go-to recipe!
Creamed Crab on English Muffins Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb crabmeat, picked over & cleaned (thawed if frozen)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup celery, minced
- 3 tablespoons onions, minced
- 1/2 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 lb mushroom, sliced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup clam juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 1/2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dry white wine
- 1/8 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup green peas (thawed)
- 3 tablespoons red pimientos, minced (the bottled kind)
- 4 English muffins, split and toasted
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- paprika, for sprinkling (garnish)
Instructions
- Place crabmeat in a steamer basket over boiling water.
- Cover saucepan and steam 3-4 minutes.
- Remove crab from steamer and set aside.
- Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté celery and onion about 8 minutes or until translucent.
- Add mushrooms and sauté another 6 minutes.
- Now, add garlic and saute another 30 seconds.
- Stir in flour and simmer about 5 minutes or until flour turns light brown.
- Combine next 5 ingredients(starting with clam juice through red pepper flakes) in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Shake vigorously.
- Add to celery mushroom mixture and simmer about 4 minutes, stirring frequently until sauce boils and begins to thicken.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer another 2 minutes.
- Add crab, sherry, white wine, peas, pimentos and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer over low heat until hot.
- Serve creamed crab over toasted English muffins, sprinkled with parsley and paprika.
- Serve with a Chenin Blanc, Beaujolais, or Fume Blanc, and a salad of greens and a nice tropical fruit cup.
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.