If you’re on the hunt for a truly unforgettable appetizer that combines the ocean’s best flavors with the comforting charm of flaky biscuits, this Irresistibly Delicious Shrimp and Crab Nacho Biscuit Melts Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender bits of shrimp and sweet lump crab melding with creamy cheeses and a hint of heat, all wrapped inside a golden, buttery biscuit that crisps to perfection. Whether for a casual gathering or a special treat, these melts deliver an exciting burst of flavor with every bite, proving once again that seafood and biscuits were made for each other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role in bringing together the savory seafood filling and the light, flaky biscuit exterior, making the preparation both straightforward and highly satisfying.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (1 can, 8 count): Convenient and flaky, it forms the perfect golden shell for the filling.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and seafood.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings aromatic depth and a savory punch to the seafood mixture.
- Small cooked shrimp (1/2 cup, chopped): Tender and flavorful, they add a delightful seafood taste.
- Lump crab meat (1/2 cup, fresh or canned): Sweet and succulent, it’s the star ingredient of this melt recipe.
- Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Delivers creamy texture and richness to bind the filling.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a sharp, melty contrast to the rest of the mix.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds tangy creaminess to balance the flavors.
- Diced tomatoes (1/4 cup, optional): Introduces freshness and a pop of color.
- Diced jalapeños (2 tablespoons, optional): For those who like a little heat to brighten the dish.
- Old Bay seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A classic seafood spice blend that elevates every bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors just right.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth to the mix.
- Chopped green onions (1 tablespoon, for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Irresistibly Delicious Shrimp and Crab Nacho Biscuit Melts Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), then line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid any sticky situations later on. Setting the stage properly means your melts will cook evenly and come out of the oven looking gorgeous.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Seafood
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. The aroma will hit you immediately as you cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped shrimp and crab, letting them cook for just 2 minutes to marry the flavors while keeping the seafood tender and fresh.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Transfer your cooked seafood to a mixing bowl and add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, sour cream, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until everything is combined into a creamy, flavorful filling that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 4: Shape the Biscuit Melts
Separate the biscuit dough into individual pieces and gently flatten each into a 4-inch round using your palms. Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the seafood mixture onto half of these rounds, making sure not to overfill. Then, top each with another biscuit round and pinch the edges carefully to seal, shaping them into stuffed biscuit melts. A slight press to flatten them ensures even baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your uncooked biscuit melts onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until they turn a glorious golden brown. The biscuits will puff up beautifully, signaling that your melts are ready to come out and impress.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm
Allow your melts to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Serve them warm with extra sour cream or salsa on the side to enhance each bite with a touch of creaminess or zesty freshness.
How to Serve Irresistibly Delicious Shrimp and Crab Nacho Biscuit Melts Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions not only add a vibrant splash of color but also a mild onion bite that contrasts perfectly with the creamy seafood filling. If you want to amp up the visual appeal, add a small dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of salsa on top just before serving for added zest.
Side Dishes
These biscuit melts shine as an appetizer but can also stand alongside light side dishes like a fresh garden salad, tangy coleslaw, or even some crispy sweet potato fries. The idea is to complement the rich seafood flavors with something crisp or refreshing to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the melted biscuits on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic touch at gatherings. For a fun twist, arrange them on a platter with alternating colorful dips such as guacamole, pico de gallo, and chipotle mayo to keep guests excited to try each bite with different flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Irresistibly Delicious Shrimp and Crab Nacho Biscuit Melts Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them sealed helps preserve the tender seafood texture and keeps the biscuits from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the fully assembled biscuit melts before baking by placing them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring into a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen melts will keep well for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
For reheating, pop the melts into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the biscuit has regained its crispness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the biscuit soggy and the seafood filling rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use fresh seafood instead of canned crab meat?
Absolutely! Fresh lump crab meat works wonderfully in this recipe and adds a sweeter, more delicate flavor. Just make sure to drain it well and avoid overcooking the seafood for the best texture.
What type of biscuits work best for this recipe?
Refrigerated biscuit dough is ideal for its convenience and consistent texture. But if you prefer homemade biscuits or a specific brand you love, those work just as well—just make sure you can flatten and seal them without tearing.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! The diced jalapeños add a nice kick, but you can easily increase the amount or add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling to suit your heat preference.
Is it possible to prepare these melts ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the biscuit melts and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours or freeze them before baking. This makes it super easy to have a ready-to-bake snack or appetizer whenever guests arrive.
What can I serve instead of sour cream?
If sour cream isn’t your favorite, plain Greek yogurt makes a great substitute that adds creaminess with a bit more tang and extra protein. Alternatively, guacamole or a fresh salsa can complement the seafood flavor well too.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably joyful about biting into these Irresistibly Delicious Shrimp and Crab Nacho Biscuit Melts Recipe—a perfect marriage of tender seafood, creamy cheeses, and flaky biscuits that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply craving a special treat, these melts bring big flavor and comforting textures to your table effortlessly. Give this recipe a try soon, and watch how quickly it becomes a treasured favorite in your culinary rotation!
Print
Irresistibly Delicious Shrimp and Crab Nacho Biscuit Melts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These irresistible Shrimp and Crab Nacho Biscuit Melts combine tender seafood with creamy cheeses and a hint of spice, all stuffed inside flaky, golden biscuits. Perfect as a savory appetizer or a satisfying snack, they’re easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Seafood Filling
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup small cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons diced jalapeños (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
Biscuit Base
- 1 can (8 count) refrigerated biscuit dough
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté Seafood: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the chopped shrimp and crab meat. Cook for 2 minutes to warm the seafood and blend flavors, then remove from heat.
- Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the sautéed seafood mixture with softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, creating a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Prepare Biscuits: Separate the refrigerated biscuit dough into individual biscuits. Flatten each biscuit into approximately a 4-inch round on a clean surface.
- Assemble Melts: Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the seafood mixture onto the center of half of the flattened biscuit rounds. Place the remaining biscuit rounds on top and carefully pinch the edges together to seal, forming stuffed biscuit melts. Press gently to slightly flatten them.
- Bake: Arrange the stuffed biscuit melts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow the melts to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm. Optionally, offer extra sour cream or salsa on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
- Make sure to drain canned crab meat well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- These melts can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Serve with a fresh salsa or guacamole for added flavor contrast.
- If you don’t have refrigerated biscuit dough, homemade biscuit dough can be used as an alternative.
