Crab Roll-Ups

Crab Roll-Ups are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that combines creamy Velveeta cheese with savory imitation crab meat, all wrapped in soft white bread. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these bite-sized treats are a hit with their crispy, buttery exterior and rich, flavorful filling.

Simply prepare by rolling the cheese and crab mixture in flattened bread slices, chilling, and then broiling until golden brown. Garnished with sesame seeds, these roll-ups offer a satisfying crunch and a touch of elegance to any occasion. Enjoy them warm for the best taste and texture!

Crab Roll-Ups

Ingredients

½ pound Velveeta cheese, sliced

1 cup butter, divided

8 oz imitation crab meat

1 large loaf of sliced white bread (inexpensive variety)

¼ cup sesame seeds

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine the cheese and ½ cup of butter. Melt the mixture, stirring until smooth.
Flake the crab meat into small pieces and mix into the melted cheese and butter.

Remove crusts from bread slices and use a rolling pin to flatten each slice completely.

Spread a line of the crab and cheese mixture along one edge of each bread slice, then roll tightly.

Arrange the rolls in a 9×13-inch baking dish and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
After chilling, cut each roll in half.

Dip each roll half in the remaining melted butter, place them seam side down in the baking dish, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Broil on medium-high for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve warm, if possible.

Notes:

Cheese Alternatives: Velveeta provides a smooth, creamy texture. If you prefer a different cheese, try using a mild cheddar or Monterey Jack, though the consistency may vary.

Butter Use: The butter helps achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior. Make sure to evenly coat each roll to ensure a uniform crispiness.

Crab Meat: Imitation crab meat (surimi) is used for convenience and affordability. If using real crab meat, make sure it’s well-drained and chopped into small pieces.

Bread Selection: Use inexpensive white bread as the recipe suggests; its softness and thin slices make rolling easier. Avoid thicker or artisanal bread, as it may not roll as well and can affect the texture.

Flattening Bread: Ensure the bread is flattened evenly with the rolling pin to avoid tearing. Flattening is crucial for rolling and for a consistent final product.

Chilling Time: Chilling the rolls helps them hold their shape during baking. Don’t skip this step to prevent the rolls from unrolling or becoming too soft.

Cutting Rolls: Cutting the rolls in half before broiling ensures they cook evenly and are easier to handle.

Broiling Tips: Keep a close eye on the rolls while broiling to prevent burning. Broiling times can vary based on your oven, so adjust as needed.

Serving: These roll-ups are best served warm for the optimal combination of crispy outside and gooey inside. They can be reheated in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes.

Variation Ideas: For added flavor, consider mixing in finely chopped green onions, a dash of garlic powder, or a bit of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. For a different topping, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of sesame seeds.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 24 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Calories: 128 | Total Ft: 11.6g | Saturated Fat: 6.5g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 196mg | Carbohydrates: 12.3g | Protein: 2.2g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack.

However, Velveeta is used for its smooth melting qualities, so if you choose a different cheese, the texture and consistency might vary.

Combining a melting cheese with a bit of cream cheese can help achieve a similar creamy texture.

Can I substitute real crab meat for imitation crab meat?

Absolutely. If you use real crab meat, ensure it is well-drained and chopped into small pieces.

Real crab will provide a more authentic seafood flavor but may increase the cost of the recipe.

What if I don’t have a rolling pin to flatten the bread?

If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can use a heavy can or a similar object to flatten the bread slices.

Just make sure to press evenly to avoid tearing the bread.

Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before broiling.

This can make them easier to handle and help the flavors meld together.

How can I make this recipe a bit healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, you can use a reduced-fat cheese or less butter.

You can also use whole-grain bread instead of white bread for added fiber.

What should I do if my roll-ups are not crispy after broiling?

If your roll-ups aren’t crispy enough, try broiling them a little longer, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

You can also increase the broiling time in small increments until they reach the desired crispiness.

Can I freeze these crab roll-ups?

Yes, you can freeze the roll-ups before broiling.

Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.

When ready to cook, broil from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How can I adjust the spice level of the crab roll-ups?

The recipe doesn’t include spices, but you can add a bit of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños to the cheese and crab mixture to give it a spicy kick.

What can I use instead of sesame seeds for topping?

If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can use poppy seeds, grated Parmesan cheese, or simply leave them out.

Each of these alternatives will give a different texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of bread?

While white bread is preferred for its softness and ease of rolling, you can use other types of bread such as whole wheat or sandwich bread.

Just be aware that denser or thicker breads might be harder to roll and may affect the final texture.