These savory shrimp and crab biscuit melts are a quick, indulgent seafood treat with a golden flaky exterior and a rich, cheesy center. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or casual dinner idea, they deliver big flavor with minimal effort and come together fast using simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is ideal when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. The biscuits bake up light and flaky, while the shrimp and crab filling is creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s versatile enough for parties, family meals, or a cozy night in, and it can easily be customized with different cheeses or seasonings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 can refrigerated flaky biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
½ cup cooked shrimp, finely chopped (about 120 g)
½ cup cooked lump crab meat (about 120 g), picked over for shells
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (about 100 g)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or cream cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Directions
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, crab meat, shredded cheese, mayonnaise or cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until the filling is evenly combined and creamy.
Separate the biscuit dough and flatten each biscuit into a round about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the seafood filling into the center of each flattened biscuit. Carefully fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges firmly to seal, forming a stuffed ball.
Place the stuffed biscuits seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are puffed and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow the biscuit melts to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings, using 1 to 2 biscuit melts per serving.
Estimated calories: about 310 calories per biscuit melt.
Variations
For a spicier version, add ¼ teaspoon of chili flakes or a finely chopped mild chili to the filling.
You can substitute part of the mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a deeper cheese flavor.
Add finely chopped green onions for extra freshness and mild bite.
For a richer seafood taste, increase the crab to ¾ cup and slightly reduce the shrimp.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover biscuit melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the biscuits soft rather than flaky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp and crab?
Yes, as long as they are fully thawed and well drained before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can assemble the biscuits a few hours in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and Monterey Jack melt smoothly, but other mild melting cheeses also work well.
How do I prevent the biscuits from opening while baking?
Make sure the edges are well pinched and sealed, and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise or cream cheese?
Yes, the filling will be slightly less creamy, but still flavorful thanks to the cheese.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, the flavors are mild and creamy, making them kid-friendly.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, checking frequently for doneness.
What can I serve with these biscuit melts?
They pair well with a fresh salad, soup, or simple vegetable side.
Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Yes, homemade biscuit dough works as long as it can be rolled and sealed easily.
How do I know when they are fully cooked?
The biscuits should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch, with the dough fully baked through.
Conclusion
Savory shrimp and crab biscuit melts are a simple yet impressive dish that brings together flaky biscuits and a creamy seafood filling in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or a comforting snack, they’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and sure to become a favorite whenever seafood cravings strike.
Savory shrimp and crab biscuit melts are flaky, golden pastries filled with a creamy, cheesy seafood mixture. These quick and flavorful treats make the perfect appetizer, snack, or casual dinner option with minimal prep.
Ingredients
1 can refrigerated flaky biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
½ cup cooked shrimp, finely chopped (about 120 g)
½ cup cooked lump crab meat (about 120 g), picked over for shells
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (about 100 g)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or cream cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix chopped shrimp, crab meat, cheese, mayonnaise or cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley until well combined.
Separate biscuit dough and flatten each biscuit into a 4–5 inch round.
Place 1–2 tablespoons of seafood filling in the center of each biscuit.
Fold the dough over the filling and pinch edges to seal, forming a stuffed ball.
Place stuffed biscuits seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush tops with melted butter.
Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until biscuits are puffed and golden brown.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be hot.
Notes
Add chili flakes or mild chili for a spicy kick.
Swap mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for deeper flavor.
Add green onions for extra freshness.
Increase crab to ¾ cup for a stronger seafood flavor.
