Nana’s Crab Roll-Ups are a nostalgic and comforting appetizer made with buttery bread, Velveeta cheese, imitation crab meat, and a touch of sesame seeds for crunch. These easy-to-make roll-ups are perfect for parties or family gatherings, and they offer a delicious, rich, and cheesy flavor that will remind you of classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
- ½ pound Velveeta cheese, sliced
- 1 cup butter (two sticks), divided
- 8 oz imitation crab meat, chopped
- 1 large loaf sliced white bread (the soft, inexpensive kind)
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced Velveeta cheese and imitation crab meat, mixing until the cheese and crab are evenly distributed. Set the filling aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Using a rolling pin, gently roll each slice of white bread to flatten it slightly. This makes the bread easier to roll without tearing.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a small amount of the Velveeta and crab mixture onto each flattened slice of bread, making sure to cover the entire surface. Roll the bread tightly into a log shape.
Step 4: Butter the Roll-Ups
Melt 1 stick of butter in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, coat each roll-up with melted butter, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Roll in Sesame Seeds
Spread the sesame seeds on a plate. Roll each buttered crab roll-up in the sesame seeds until they are lightly coated.
Step 6: Fry the Roll-Ups
In a large skillet, melt the remaining 1 stick of butter over medium heat. Add the sesame-coated roll-ups to the skillet and fry them, turning frequently, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the roll-ups are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess butter. Serve the Crab Roll-Ups warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes:
- Bread: Make sure to use soft, inexpensive white bread, as it rolls easily and holds the filling well.
- Imitation Crab: If you prefer, you can substitute real crab meat for a more elevated version of this recipe.
- Cheese: Velveeta gives the roll-ups a creamy, melty texture, but you can experiment with other cheeses if you prefer a different flavor.
Variations:
1. Crab and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Replace the Velveeta with softened cream cheese for a lighter, tangy filling.
2. Spicy Crab Roll-Ups
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the crab mixture for a spicy kick.
3. Herbed Crab Roll-Ups
Mix fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the filling for a fresh, flavorful twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry them. Just store them in an airtight container.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover crab roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore their crispy texture.
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake the roll-ups at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Brush them with melted butter before baking for best results.
Nana’s Crab Roll-Ups are a classic, comforting appetizer that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With melty Velveeta cheese, flavorful imitation crab, and a buttery, crispy exterior, these roll-ups offer a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just a fun snack, these crab roll-ups are sure to become a favorite!
Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of classic comfort food!