Creamy Hot Crab DipRecipe: Perfect Party Appetizer Recipe

Introduction

This creamy hot crab dip is a perfect party appetizer that’s both rich and flavorful. Made with lump crab meat and a blend of cheeses, it’s guaranteed to be the star of your next gathering. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this dip will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions, paprika for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Gently fold in lump crab meat, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined, being careful to keep the crab pieces intact.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the dip.
5. Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm with your favorite crackers, bread, or vegetable dippers.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or chopped green onions to the dip or as garnish.
• Try topping the dip with crispy breadcrumbs or an additional layer of melted cheese before baking for added texture.
• Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter zing.
• To make it spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños.

Storage

Store leftover crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent the crab from becoming tough.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture a day ahead, store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving for fresh, warm dip.

What can I serve with hot crab dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with crisp crackers, toasted bread cubes, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and bell peppers.

Creamy Hot Crab DipRecipe: Perfect Party Appetizer Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 51 reviews

This Creamy Hot Crab Dip is a rich, cheesy, and indulgent appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with lump crab meat, cream cheese, cheddar, and a blend of creamy mayonnaise and sour cream, this warm dip is baked to bubbly perfection and served with crackers, bread, or veggies. Its savory garlic and mild lemon undertone enhance the sweet crab flavor, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dip Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 pound lump crab meat, picked through for shells
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
2. Mix Creamy Base: In a medium-sized bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Crab and Seasonings: Gently fold the lump crab meat into the creamy mixture, being careful to keep the crab chunks intact. Then add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the crab mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top to form a cheesy crust.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dip is bubbly throughout.
6. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika if desired, alongside crackers, toasted bread cubes, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to make mixing easier and achieve a smooth texture.
• Carefully pick through crab meat to remove any shell fragments.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix.
• Serving the dip warm enhances the cheesy, melty experience.
• This dip can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; reheat in the oven before serving.
• Consider topping with crispy breadcrumbs or extra cheese for added texture before baking.

Keywords: crab dip, creamy crab dip, hot crab dip, party appetizer, seafood dip, baked crab dip, crab and cheese dip