Name: Creamy Cheddar Crab Melt Sandwich
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tsp Dijon or whole grain mustard; 1 tsp lemon juice; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 4 slices bread (sourdough, rye, or sandwich rolls); 1 tbsp butter (for toasting bread); Optional: sliced tomato, paprika for garnish

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The Creamy Cheddar Crab Melt Sandwich is a rich, cheesy, and savory seafood sandwich that’s both comforting and incredibly satisfying. I take tender crab meat, mix it with creamy mayo, tangy mustard, herbs, and sharp cheddar, then pile it onto toasted bread and broil it until golden and bubbly. It’s quick to make and tastes like a gourmet deli sandwich right from my own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels fancy without being complicated. It’s perfect when I want something warm, melty, and packed with flavor. The cheddar pairs perfectly with the sweet crab, and it all comes together in less than 20 minutes. Whether I’m making a cozy lunch or a fun weeknight dinner, this sandwich always hits the spot. Creamy Cheddar Crab Melt Sandwich

Ingredients

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

Lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
Mayonnaise
Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard
Lemon juice
Green onions (chopped)
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Salt
Black pepper
Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Bread slices (sourdough, rye, or sandwich rolls work great)
Butter (for toasting the bread)
Optional: Old Bay seasoning, paprika, sliced tomato

Directions

I preheat the broiler and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
In a bowl, I mix together the crab meat, mayo, mustard, lemon juice, green onions, parsley, salt, pepper, and a bit of Old Bay if using.
I fold in about half of the shredded cheddar.
I lightly butter the bread and toast it in a skillet or on a griddle until golden on one side, then place the slices toasted-side down on the baking sheet.
I spoon the crab mixture over each slice, spreading it evenly, and top with the remaining cheddar.
I broil the sandwiches for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the tops are lightly browned.
I serve them hot, optionally with a few tomato slices or a sprinkle of paprika on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2–4 open-faced sandwiches and takes about 20 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 5–10 minutes to broil and assemble.

Variations

Sometimes I use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss for a different flavor. For a spicy version, I add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños. I’ve also made these on English muffins or bagels for a fun twist. If I want a fuller meal, I serve the melts with a green salad or a bowl of tomato soup.

Storage/Reheating

These sandwiches are best eaten fresh, but I store any leftover crab mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat a fully assembled melt, I pop it back under the broiler or in a toaster oven until warm and crisp. I avoid the microwave to keep the texture from getting soggy. Creamy Cheddar Crab Melt Sandwich

FAQs

Can I use canned crab?

Yes, I can. I just make sure to drain it well and pick through for any shells. Lump crab meat gives the best texture.

What’s the best bread for crab melts?

I prefer sturdy bread like sourdough or a crusty roll that can hold the creamy topping without getting soggy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I mix the crab filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to eat, I assemble and broil the sandwiches fresh.

Is this recipe good for kids?

Yes, especially if I keep the flavors simple. I might skip the mustard or use mild cheese for picky eaters.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. I’ve added chopped celery for crunch or layered tomato slices under the cheese before broiling.

Conclusion

The Creamy Cheddar Crab Melt Sandwich is one of my favorite quick meals that still feels rich and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients, I get a warm, cheesy, seafood-packed sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and always a comfort food win.