Crustless Crab Quiche Bites Recipe

There’s something undeniably charming about bite-sized food, especially when it’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. These Crustless Crab Quiche Bites are a testament to that. From the moment I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was intrigued by its simplicity and the promise of a creamy, crab-filled delight. Being a busy weeknight, I was searching for something quick yet satisfying to make for dinner, and these little quiches seemed like the perfect solution. My family, always eager to try new things, especially anything involving seafood, was immediately on board. And let me tell you, they were a hit! The aroma that filled the kitchen as they baked was simply divine – a delicate blend of cheesy goodness and the sweet scent of crab. The first bite was a revelation – a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich, savory flavor profile. The Swiss cheese provided a nutty backdrop, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the crab, while the subtle hint of sriracha added just the right amount of warmth without being overpowering. Even my kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devoured them! What I particularly loved was how versatile these bites are. They’re fantastic as a light lunch, a sophisticated appetizer for gatherings, or even a fun and flavorful snack. And the fact that they are crustless makes them lighter and healthier, without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both effortless and elegant, look no further. These Crustless Crab Quiche Bites are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

This recipe shines in its simplicity, utilizing everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s delve into each ingredient and understand its role in these delectable quiche bites:

• 2 Large Eggs, Beaten: Eggs are the foundation of our quiche bites, providing structure, richness, and binding power. Using large eggs ensures the right ratio of liquid to solids, creating a perfect creamy texture. Beating the eggs beforehand is crucial as it incorporates air, leading to a lighter and fluffier final product. For the best results, use fresh, high-quality eggs. If you are concerned about cholesterol, you could consider using egg whites for a slightly lighter version, though this will alter the richness and texture slightly. For those with egg allergies, finding a direct substitute in a quiche recipe can be challenging, but some vegan egg replacers might work, though testing beforehand is recommended.
• 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise might seem like an unusual ingredient in quiche, but it’s the secret to the incredible creaminess and moistness of these bites. It adds a subtle tang and richness that elevates the flavor profile. Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use light mayonnaise to reduce the fat content slightly, although it might impact the overall richness. For those who dislike mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt could be considered as alternatives, but they will impart a different flavor profile and slightly less creamy texture. Experimenting with different types of mayonnaise, like avocado oil mayonnaise, can also add a unique twist.
• 1/2 Cup Whole Milk: Whole milk contributes to the creamy texture and helps to thin out the mixture to the perfect consistency. The fat content in whole milk adds richness and depth of flavor. If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, you could substitute with 2% milk or even skim milk, but the final texture might be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk could be used. These alternatives will change the flavor slightly but can still yield delicious results. Coconut milk (the kind from a carton, not canned) can also be used for a richer, slightly sweeter flavor.
• 2 Tablespoons Flour: Flour is used as a binder in this recipe, helping to thicken the mixture and provide structure to the quiche bites. All-purpose flour works perfectly well. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. It’s important to ensure the flour is well incorporated to avoid any lumps in the batter. If you are very sensitive to gluten, double-check that your flour blend is certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce is a flavor powerhouse! Just a small amount adds a depth of savory umami that enhances all the other flavors in the quiche. It provides a complexity that you wouldn’t expect from such a simple ingredient list. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you could try a dash of soy sauce or fish sauce as a substitute, but they will impart slightly different flavor notes. For a vegetarian or vegan alternative, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is anchovy-free, or use a vegan Worcestershire sauce substitute.
• 1/4 Teaspoon Kosher Salt: Salt is essential for bringing out the flavors of all the other ingredients. Kosher salt is preferred by many cooks for its clean, pure taste and larger crystals, which make it easier to control the seasoning. If using table salt, you may need to use slightly less as it is more concentrated. Always season to taste, and remember that you can always add more salt, but it’s harder to take it away.
• Pinch of Pepper: Pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice that complements the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor, but pre-ground pepper will also work. You can adjust the amount of pepper to your preference. White pepper can be used for a milder flavor and to avoid black specks in the quiche.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Sriracha Sauce: Sriracha sauce adds a touch of heat and a subtle garlicky flavor. It’s not overpowering, but it provides a pleasant warmth that balances the richness of the cheese and mayonnaise. If you are sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether. For a milder flavor, you could use a milder hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you love spice, feel free to add more sriracha or even a different type of hot sauce to customize the heat level.
• 1 Cup Shredded Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is the star of the cheese component, offering a nutty, slightly sweet, and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with crab. It melts beautifully and creates a lovely texture. You can use pre-shredded Swiss cheese for convenience, or shred it yourself for potentially better melting. Other cheese options that would work well include Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Swiss and Gruyere for an even richer flavor. For a sharper flavor, consider adding a touch of Parmesan cheese.
• 6 Ounces Lump Crab Meat (or Imitation Crab Torn into Small Pieces): Crab meat is the heart of these quiche bites, providing a delicate sweetness and seafood flavor. Lump crab meat is ideal for its texture and flavor, but it can be more expensive. If you’re on a budget, or simply prefer a more economical option, imitation crab (also known as surimi) is a perfectly acceptable substitute. Just make sure to tear it into small pieces so it distributes evenly throughout the quiche bites. Canned crab meat can also be used, but be sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture. If using fresh crab, ensure it is cooked and cooled before adding it to the mixture.
• 4 Whole Scallions, Diced: Scallions (green onions) add a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a touch of color to the quiche bites. They provide a subtle sharpness that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients. Make sure to dice them finely so they distribute evenly and cook through during baking. If you don’t have scallions, you could substitute with chives or a very finely diced shallot or mild white onion. Adding a touch of fresh herbs like parsley or dill along with the scallions can also enhance the flavor.

Instructions

Making these Crustless Crab Quiche Bites is surprisingly straightforward and quick. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly baked, flavorful bites:

1. Preheat Oven to 350 Degrees F (175 Degrees C). Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring even baking and preventing the quiche bites from cooking too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked in the center. Make sure your oven is properly preheated before you place the muffin tin inside. Using an oven thermometer is a good way to ensure accurate temperature.
2. Coat a 24-Slot MINI Muffin Tin Generously with Nonstick Spray. Generously coat a 24-slot mini muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. This is absolutely essential for preventing the quiche bites from sticking to the tin and ensuring easy removal after baking. Don’t be shy with the spray – ensure every nook and cranny of each muffin slot is well coated. Alternatively, you could use muffin liners, but the crustless nature of these bites makes them prone to sticking to paper liners. Nonstick spray is the most reliable method. If you don’t have nonstick spray, you can grease the muffin tin with melted butter or oil and then lightly dust with flour.
3. In a Large Bowl, Whisk Together the Eggs, Mayonnaise, Milk, Flour, Worcestershire, Salt, Pepper, and Sriracha. In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, mayonnaise, whole milk, flour, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, pepper, and sriracha sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Ensure there are no lumps of flour remaining. Whisking vigorously will incorporate air into the mixture, which will help create a lighter texture. This step is crucial for creating the creamy base of the quiche bites.
4. Stir in the Cheese, Crab, and Scallions. Once the wet ingredients are well combined, gently stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, crab meat (or imitation crab), and diced scallions. Fold the ingredients in gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture without overmixing. Overmixing at this stage can toughen the texture of the quiche bites. Make sure the crab meat is broken into smaller pieces if using lump crab or imitation crab to ensure even distribution in the small muffin slots.
5. Evenly Distribute the Mixture Among the Slots (I Like to Use a Cookie Scoop!). Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, evenly distribute the quiche mixture among the 24 slots of the prepared mini muffin tin. Aim to fill each slot about ¾ full, leaving a little room for the quiche bites to puff up during baking. A cookie scoop is a great tool for ensuring even portions and minimizing mess. If you don’t have a cookie scoop, a tablespoon works well. Try to distribute the solids (cheese, crab, scallions) evenly among the slots so each bite is flavorful and well-balanced.
6. Bake Until Edges Are Puffed and a Knife Inserted in the Center Comes Out Clean, About 30 to 35 Minutes. (If You Notice the Edges Are Browning Too Quickly, Tent with Foil.) Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges of the quiche bites are puffed up and golden brown, and a knife or toothpick inserted into the center of a bite comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s important to check for doneness. If you notice the edges are browning too quickly before the center is cooked through, loosely tent the muffin tin with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. The quiche bites should be set and slightly jiggly, but not liquidy, when they are done.
7. Let Stand 10 Minutes, Then Remove from the Muffin Tins and Enjoy! Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the quiche bites stand in the tin for about 10 minutes before attempting to remove them. This resting time allows the quiche bites to set further and makes them easier to remove from the muffin tin without breaking. After 10 minutes, gently loosen the edges of each quiche bite with a knife or spatula and carefully remove them from the muffin tin. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy these delicious and easy Crustless Crab Quiche Bites!

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate, per serving of 1 mini quiche bite)

• Servings: 24 mini quiche bites
• Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories per bite (This can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used, especially the fat content of the mayonnaise and cheese, and the type of crab meat).

Detailed Breakdown (Approximate Values):

• Total Fat: 6-8 grams (Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams)
• Cholesterol: 40-50 mg
• Sodium: 100-150 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams (Dietary Fiber: <1 gram, Sugars: <1 gram)
• Protein: 4-5 grams

Important Notes:

• These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.
• Using light mayonnaise or reduced-fat cheese will lower the fat and calorie content.
• Imitation crab may have slightly different nutritional values compared to real crab meat.
• For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

These Crustless Crab Quiche Bites, while delicious and satisfying, are moderately calorie-dense due to the mayonnaise and cheese. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They do offer a good source of protein from the eggs and crab, and some calcium from the cheese.

Preparation Time

These quiche bites are a dream for busy cooks, with a minimal preparation time that gets you to deliciousness in no time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

Breakdown of Prep Time:

• Preheating Oven: 1-2 minutes (passive time, while you are doing other tasks)
• Greasing Muffin Tin: 1 minute
• Whisking Wet Ingredients: 3 minutes
• Chopping Scallions: 2 minutes
• Stirring in Cheese, Crab, and Scallions: 1 minute
• Distributing Mixture into Muffin Tin: 2 minutes

As you can see, most of the prep time is spent on very simple tasks like whisking and stirring. The recipe is designed for speed and efficiency, making it perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute appetizers. The quick prep time means you can easily whip these up even when you’re short on time but still want something homemade and delicious.

• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes (including resting time)

The total time from start to finish is less than an hour, which is incredibly convenient for a recipe that delivers such impressive flavor and satisfaction.

How to Serve

Crustless Crab Quiche Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for almost any occasion:

• Appetizer Extravaganza:
  • Party Pleaser: Arrange these quiche bites beautifully on a platter for your next party or gathering. They are the perfect finger food – elegant, flavorful, and easy to eat while mingling.
  • Holiday Hors d’oeuvres: Elevate your holiday appetizer spread with these savory bites. They are a welcome change from sweet treats and provide a sophisticated touch.
  • Pre-Dinner Nibbles: Serve a few quiche bites as a delightful appetizer before a main course. Their light yet satisfying nature will whet appetites without being too filling.
• Brunch or Light Lunch Star:
  • Brunch Table Centerpiece: These quiche bites are a fantastic addition to any brunch spread. Pair them with fresh fruit, yogurt, pastries, and a side salad for a complete and balanced brunch.
  • Weekday Lunchbox Treat: Pack a couple of quiche bites in your lunchbox for a satisfying and protein-packed midday meal. They are delicious cold or at room temperature.
  • Light and Lovely Lunch: Enjoy a serving of quiche bites with a simple green salad or a cup of soup for a light yet flavorful lunch.
• Snack Sensation:
  • Afternoon Delight: When hunger strikes in the afternoon, these quiche bites make a wonderful and healthy snack compared to processed options.
  • Post-Workout Refuel: Packed with protein, they are a great option for a post-workout snack to help muscle recovery.
  • On-the-Go Goodness: Portable and easy to eat, they are perfect for a quick snack on the go.
• Serving Suggestions & Pairings:
  • Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to complement the quiche bites. Consider:
    • Lemon-Dill Aioli: A classic pairing with crab, the creamy aioli with bright lemon and fresh dill enhances the seafood flavor.
    • Sriracha Mayo: For those who like a little heat, sriracha mayo adds a creamy and spicy kick.
    • Tartar Sauce: A traditional seafood accompaniment, tartar sauce provides a tangy and creamy contrast.
    • Sweet Chili Sauce: For a sweet and spicy twist, sweet chili sauce offers a delightful flavor combination.
  • Garnishes: Enhance the presentation and flavor with fresh garnishes:
    • Fresh Dill or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the quiche bites for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
    • Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a squeeze of brightness that complements the crab.
    • Extra Scallions: A sprinkle of finely sliced scallions adds visual appeal and a touch of oniony freshness.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Crustless Crab Quiche Bites are sure to be a hit! Their versatility and delicious flavor make them a perfect choice for any occasion.

Additional Tips for Perfect Crustless Crab Quiche Bites

To ensure your Crustless Crab Quiche Bites turn out perfectly every time, here are five helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When you stir in the cheese, crab, and scallions, be gentle and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour (even though it’s a small amount), leading to tougher quiche bites. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Generously Grease the Muffin Tin (or Use Nonstick Spray Liberally): This tip cannot be stressed enough! Crustless quiche bites are prone to sticking, especially to muffin tins. Using a good quality nonstick cooking spray and applying it generously is crucial for easy removal. Make sure to coat all the crevices of each muffin slot. If using butter or oil to grease, ensure you are thorough and consider dusting with flour for extra insurance against sticking.
3. Don’t Overfill the Muffin Slots: Fill each muffin slot about ¾ full. Leaving some space allows the quiche bites to puff up during baking without overflowing. Overfilling can lead to uneven baking and a messy muffin tin. Using a cookie scoop helps to control portion sizes and ensures consistent filling levels.
4. Adjust Baking Time Based on Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary, so the baking time provided is a guideline. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. The quiche bites are ready when the edges are puffed and golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If they are browning too quickly, tent with foil. Always rely on visual cues and the knife test rather than strictly adhering to the time if your oven tends to run hot or cold.
5. Let Them Rest Before Removing: Allow the quiche bites to rest in the muffin tin for at least 10 minutes after baking before attempting to remove them. This resting time is crucial as it allows the quiche to set further and firm up, making them much easier to remove without breaking or crumbling. Patience is key!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have about making Crustless Crab Quiche Bites:

Q1: Can I make these quiche bites ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! Crustless Crab Quiche Bites are perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake them completely and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or you can enjoy them cold or at room temperature. They are a great make-ahead appetizer or brunch item.

Q2: Can I freeze Crustless Crab Quiche Bites?

A: Yes, you can freeze them. Allow the baked quiche bites to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Q3: Can I substitute the Swiss cheese with another type of cheese?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute the Swiss cheese. Gruyere cheese is an excellent alternative as it has a similar nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile. Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even a mild cheddar would also work well. Experiment with your favorite cheeses to find your perfect flavor combination. A blend of cheeses can also add complexity.

Q4: I don’t have lump crab meat. Can I use canned crab or imitation crab?

A: Yes, both canned crab meat and imitation crab (surimi) are perfectly acceptable substitutes. For canned crab, make sure to drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. For imitation crab, tear it into small pieces before adding it to ensure it distributes evenly. Lump crab meat provides the best texture and flavor, but these alternatives are budget-friendly and still delicious.

Q5: Can I make one large quiche instead of mini bites?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make one large crustless quiche. Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9-inch pie plate or a similar-sized oven-safe dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45-55 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it stand for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. The baking time will be longer for a large quiche compared to the mini bites.

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