Gluten-Free Air Fryer Crab Melts
These air fryer crab melts combine tender lump crab meat with creamy mayonnaise, crisp celery, and melted cheddar cheese on toasted English muffin halves. The air fryer creates a perfectly golden top while keeping the crab mixture warm and the muffin base crispy. A quick weeknight dinner or elegant brunch dish that's ready in minutes, with a hint of Tabasco for gentle heat. Perfect for using up leftover crab meat or when you want restaurant-quality melts at home.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons onion, diced
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Tabasco sauce, or adjust to taste
- 6 ounces lump crab meatimitation crab1:1seafood
chop finely
- ⅓ cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 whole English muffins, slicedbagel halves1:1grain
slice and use
Instructions
- 1
Mix crab meat, mayonnaise, diced celery, diced onions, salt, and pepper in a small bowl
- 2
Mix well to combine all ingredients
- 3
Mix in shredded cheddar cheese
- 4
Separate English muffins into halves
- 5
Spread crabmeat mixture on top of each English muffin half
- 6
Place prepared melts in air fryer basket or on air fryer tray
- 7
Air fry at 300 degrees F for 5 minutes
- 8
Plate and serve immediately
Tips
Drain crab meat well to prevent soggy melts and check for any shell pieces before mixing
Toast English muffin halves lightly before adding topping for extra crunch and to prevent sogginess
Good to Know
Store assembled melts covered in refrigerator up to 1 day. Reheat in air fryer 2-3 minutes.
Prepare crab mixture up to 1 day ahead. Assemble and cook when ready to serve.
Serve immediately while cheese is melted and muffins are warm and crispy.
Common Mistakes
Don't overfill muffins to avoid spillover
Check crab meat for shells to avoid unpleasant surprises
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
slice and use
chop finely
FAQ
Can I use frozen crab meat?
Yes, thaw completely and drain well before using. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
How long do leftovers keep?
Cooked melts keep 2-3 days refrigerated but are best reheated in air fryer to restore crispness.
Can I make these in a regular oven?
Yes, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until cheese melts and tops are golden brown.