Hot Crab Dip is a rich, creamy appetizer that brings together tender crab meat, melted cheese, and savoury seasonings into one irresistibly warm dish. Perfect for parties, holidays, or game-day gatherings, this dip delivers luxurious seafood flavor with comforting, cheesy goodness.
Hot Crab Dip:
Served bubbling hot straight from the oven, Hot Crab Dip pairs beautifully with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables. Despite its elegant taste, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a favourite for both casual hosting and special occasions.
History:
Crab-based dips became popular in coastal regions where fresh crab was abundant, particularly in American seafood cuisine. Over time, cream cheese and baked cheese dips rose in popularity during the mid-20th century, transforming crab into a party-style appetizer. Hot Crab Dip is now a classic staple at gatherings, especially during holidays and celebrations.
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Hot Crab Dip
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (lump or claw, drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream (or mayonnaise), and shredded cheese until smooth.
- Gently fold in crab meat, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use good-quality crab for the best flavour.
- Avoid overmixing to keep crab chunks intact.
- Drain crab meat well to prevent a watery dip.
- Serve hot for best texture and taste.
- A shallow dish helps achieve a bubbly top.
Tips for Hot Crab:
- Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Mix in Parmesan for deeper flavour.
- Broil for 2 minutes for a golden top.
- Prepare ahead and bake just before serving.
- Serve with lemon wedges for brightness.
FAQs for Hot Crab Dip:
Q1: Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, just drain it thoroughly before using.
Q2: Can I make Hot Crab ahead of time?
Absolutely—assemble it, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Q3: What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Mascarpone or ricotta can be used for a lighter texture.
Q4: Is this dip spicy?
It’s mild, but you can adjust heat with cayenne or chili flakes.
Q5: How long can leftovers be stored?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion:
Hot Crab Dip is the ultimate warm appetizer—creamy, savory, and packed with delicious crab flavor. Easy to prepare and endlessly crowd-pleasing, it’s a must-have recipe for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting seafood dish that everyone will love.