Seafood Biscuit Melts

These seafood-stuffed biscuit pockets transform store-bought dough into an impressive appetizer that tastes like it came from your favorite seafood restaurant. The combination of sweet crab and succulent shrimp creates a decadent filling that melts perfectly with the cheese inside golden, flaky biscuits.

I created these melts one evening when I had leftover seafood from a weekend boil. My family devoured them so quickly I barely got one for myself, and they've been requesting them for movie nights ever since.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated flaky biscuits the pre made dough saves time while still delivering that perfect texture
• Cooked shrimp small pieces distribute the flavor throughout each bite
• Lump crab meat splurge on quality here as the sweet flavor is the star
• Mozzarella cheese provides that perfect stringy cheese pull when melted
• Cream cheese adds richness and helps bind the filling together
• Old Bay seasoning the classic seafood spice blend that enhances without overpowering
• Fresh parsley brightens the rich filling with color and freshness
• Butter brushing the tops ensures beautiful golden brown color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Biscuits

Take each refrigerated biscuit and gently flatten it with your palm until it's about 4 inches in diameter. Don't roll them too thin or the filling might leak through. Arrange them evenly on a parchment lined baking sheet.

Mix Seafood Filling

In a medium bowl, carefully fold together the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and chopped parsley. The key is mixing gently to keep the crab pieces intact for that luxurious texture.

Assemble The Melts

Place a generous spoonful of the seafood mixture onto half of the flattened biscuits. Make sure to leave about half an inch around the edges to ensure proper sealing. Place the remaining biscuits on top and firmly press the edges together with a fork or your fingers.

Bake To Golden Perfection

Brush the tops with melted butter for that irresistible shine and flavor. Bake in your preheated oven for exactly 13 to 15 minutes, watching closely toward the end. They should be beautifully puffed and golden brown when done.

Bookmark

The first time I served these at a family gathering, my seafood hating nephew devoured three without realizing what was in them. The creamy, cheesy filling makes these incredibly approachable even for those who typically shy away from seafood dishes.

Make Ahead Options

These melts are perfect for prep ahead entertaining. You can assemble them up to 12 hours before baking and keep them refrigerated. Simply add an extra minute or two to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for holiday parties when you want to minimize last minute cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're watching your budget or can't find fresh seafood, this recipe adapts beautifully to alternatives. Canned crab works in a pinch, though drain it thoroughly first. You can also use all shrimp or substitute imitation crab meat. For the cheese, any good melting cheese like provolone or monterey jack can replace the mozzarella with delicious results.

Serving Suggestions

These melts shine as part of a casual seafood spread. Serve alongside a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch, or as part of an appetizer board with pickled vegetables and a tangy remoulade sauce for dipping. For an elevated presentation, sprinkle with additional fresh herbs just before serving and offer lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use frozen seafood for these melts?

Yes, frozen shrimp and crab can work well, but ensure they're completely thawed and patted dry before mixing. Excess moisture might make the filling too wet and prevent proper sealing of the biscuits.

→ What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

If Old Bay isn't available, make your own blend with paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of celery salt. Alternatively, cajun seasoning or seafood seasoning blends work nicely as substitutes.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can prepare the seafood filling up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble the melts just before baking for best results. Pre-assembled unbaked melts may become soggy if refrigerated too long.

→ What sides pair well with these seafood melts?

These melts pair wonderfully with a light green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a seafood bisque or chowder.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella offers a nice melt, gruyere, fontina, or monterey jack would be excellent alternatives. For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of grated parmesan to the filling.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the biscuits soggy.