Name: Irresistible Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts for Every Seafood Lover
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup Lump Crab Meat (Imitation crab is a suitable substitute.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Can substitute with mozzarella.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Use softened cream cheese or ricotta.); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter option.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Regular mustard works as an alternative.); 2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning (Cajun seasoning is a great alternative.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (White pepper can be used as a milder option.); 1 can Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (Homemade biscuit dough is a great substitute.); 2 tablespoons Butter, melted (Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped (Chives can be used instead.)

As the aroma of the Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement. Tender shrimp meets rich lump crab, all tucked inside a flaky biscuit that’s baked to golden perfection. This recipe is not just quick to whip up; it’s a comforting nod to seafood lovers everywhere, perfect as a satisfying lunch or an elegant appetizer that will impress your guests. The delightful combination of creamy cheese and zesty seasoning creates a magical bite that’s both familiar and extraordinary. Whether you’re treating yourself or entertaining friends, these melts promise a heartwarming experience that celebrates the joys of homemade food. Ready to dive into these delicious seafood treats? Let’s get cooking!

What Makes Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts Special?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with succulent shrimp and sweet crab, harmonizing beautifully with creamy cheese and zesty seasoning.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, these melts are perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.

Versatile Appeal: Enjoy them warm as a delightful appetizer or serve alongside a crisp salad for a fulfilling lunch.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: These melts are bound to impress at any gathering, making them a hit with seafood lovers and novices alike.

Simple Substitutions: Personalize your melts easily by experimenting with different cheeses or adding spices for an extra kick, just like in our Turmeric Dill Shrimp recipe!

Embrace the joy of homemade cooking with this scrumptious treat that offers both comfort and flair.

Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melt Ingredients

For the Seafood Mixture
• Shrimp – Fresh seafood providing a sweet and tender protein; opt for peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience.
• Lump Crab Meat – Adds richness and a sweet, delicate flavor; imitation crab is a suitable substitute.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and sharpness; easily swap for mozzarella or a dairy-free option.
• Cream Cheese – Offers a rich, creamy texture; soften it for easy mixing, or replace with ricotta if preferred.
• Mayonnaise – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; Greek yogurt can lighten it up.
• Dijon Mustard – Delivers a tangy flavor kick; regular mustard works if Dijon is unavailable.
• Old Bay Seasoning – A classic seafood seasoning; Cajun seasoning makes a great alternative.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses a savory aroma; use fresh minced garlic instead for a fresher taste.
• Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; white pepper offers a milder alternative.

For the Biscuit Base
• Refrigerated Biscuit Dough – Forms the flaky outer layer; homemade biscuit dough is a great substitute if you’re up for it.
• Butter (melted) – Brushed on top for a golden finish; olive oil serves as a healthier alternative.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; chives work well too or you may omit it if not available.

These Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts are incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor them to your taste preferences. Enjoy crafting these delightful bites for your next meal or gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready for your delightful Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts. This temperature is perfect for achieving a beautifully golden and flaky exterior on the biscuits. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process.

Step 2: Prepare the Seafood Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, lump crab meat, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a fork to mix everything thoroughly until well combined, creating a creamy, flavorful filling that will pack a tasty punch in each melt.

Step 3: Flatten the Biscuit Dough
On a lightly floured surface, take each refrigerated biscuit and flatten it to about 1/4 inch thick using your hands or a rolling pin. This step is crucial as it allows for the biscuit to wrap around the delicious seafood filling easily. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking, and lay the flattened biscuits aside.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Biscuits
Spoon a generous amount of the seafood mixture onto the center of each flattened biscuit. Fold the biscuit over to form a half-moon shape, carefully pinching the edges together to seal in the filling tightly. Make sure the edges are sealed well to prevent any filling from escaping during baking.

Step 5: Arrange and Brush with Butter
Place the filled biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even baking. To enhance their golden color and flavor, brush the tops with melted butter using a pastry brush. This step not only adds a delicious sheen but also helps achieve that irresistible crispy texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the melts should puff up and turn a golden brown color, indicating they are cooked through and the biscuits are flaky. The delectable aroma of seafood and buttery biscuits will fill your kitchen!

Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the melts to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This will make them easier to handle. To elevate their presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving, adding a touch of color and freshness that complements the rich filling perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the seafood filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the shrimp, crab meat, cheeses, and seasonings, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can flatten the biscuit dough ahead of time and keep the rounds wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for about 3 days. To finish the melts, just spoon the chilled filling into the dough, seal, brush with butter, and bake directly from the fridge. This method ensures your melts are just as delicious when cooked, providing you with a quick and delightful meal or snack any day of the week!

Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch and make these shrimp crab biscuit melts even more delightful!

Lobster Delight: Replace shrimp with fresh lobster meat for a luxurious twist that seafood lovers will adore.
Scallop Surprise: Swap in scallops for a delicate flavor and chewy texture; pan-sear them before adding for extra depth.
Spicy Kick: Dice jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to heat things up and awaken your taste buds.
Nutritious Greens: Fold in fresh spinach or kale for an easy way to boost nutrition while adding a splash of color.
Crispy Crunch: Incorporate crushed crackers or panko bread crumbs into the filling for an unexpected crispy texture.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or tarragon to elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.
Cheese Varieties: Swap out cheddar for creamy gouda or even a vegan cheese for a different creamy experience, perfect for your preferences.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try these variations and enjoy the experience of crafting your very own version of these delicious melts. You might find a new favorite in the mix! And if you’re curious about other seafood treats, check out our amazing Turmeric Dill Shrimp for more inspiration!

Expert Tips for Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts

Ingredient Prep: Make sure shrimp is peeled and deveined; this saves time and ensures your melts have the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overfill: Keep an eye on how much filling you place in each biscuit. Overfilling can lead to messy spills while baking—less is often more!
Seal Well: Pinch the edges of each biscuit tightly to ensure a secure seal. This prevents delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
Even Baking: Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to help the melts bake evenly without sticking, ensuring that you get that perfect golden crust.
Freshness Matters: Opt for fresh ingredients when possible, especially seafood, as this dramatically enhances the overall taste of your Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts.

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts fresh out of the oven for the best taste. If needed, they can sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cooled melt individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat frozen melts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy, ensuring those delightful flavors are back in action!

What to Serve with Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts

The perfect meal is just a side away; elevate your dinner table with these delightful complements that balance flavors and textures.

Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the rich seafood melts. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy element, enhancing the melts’ flavors while offering a creamy texture contrast that feels indulgent.
Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread is a fantastic side that complements the seafood and soaks up any flavorful sauce left on your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn brings a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory shrimp and crab.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Bright, refreshing drinks will cut the richness of the melts, cleansing your palate between bites and enhancing the overall dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light and airy chocolate mousse. Its rich flavor and silky texture offer a luscious ending to your seafood feast.

Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe shrimp and crab meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a mild, ocean-like scent. Avoid any that smell overly fishy or have black spots, which indicate spoilage. For crab meat, fresh lump crab should be sweet-smelling and moist, without any dark spots. If you’re using canned or frozen crab, opt for reputable brands to ensure quality.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts?
Very! After enjoying your Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just remember, for the best texture, it’s ideal to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave!

Can I freeze Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts and how do I do it?
Of course! To freeze your melts, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each individually in plastic wrap. Once wrapped, place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat your frozen melts, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

What should I do if my biscuits are leaking filling during baking?
No worries! If you find your melts leaking, the key is in the sealing. Make sure to pinch the edges of the biscuit dough tightly to secure the filling. If you overloaded them, it might also cause spillage, so try using a bit less filling next time. Moreover, using parchment paper on your baking sheet can help with cleanup if any filling escapes.

Are Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts safe for individuals with shellfish allergies?
Not at all! Unfortunately, this recipe is not safe for those with shellfish allergies, as it contains both shrimp and crab. If you or someone you’re serving has allergies, I recommend tweaking the recipe to use alternative proteins like chicken or turkey, ensuring they’re completely allergic-free. Always check for potential allergens in ingredient substitutes!

How many calories are in each serving of Shrimp Crab Biscuit Melts?
Great question! Each serving approximately contains around 320 calories, making it a satisfying and hearty treat. They’re perfect for a protein boost during lunch, so enjoy them guilt-free!