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CRAB DIP

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Irresistible Hot Crab Dip Recipe

Welcome to a delightful and easy-to-make hot crab dip recipe that will impress your guests and elevate any occasion. This creamy, cheesy, and perfectly spiced appetizer is a must-have for your holiday gatherings, especially Christmas and New Year’s Eve. With a rich blend of cream cheese, cooked lump crab meat, and a harmonious mix of spices, this dip is baked to a golden brown perfection and served warm. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting snack, this hot crab dip is simple yet elegant, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened
  • Mayonnaise: 1/3 cup
  • Sour Cream: 1/4 cup
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
  • Pepper Jack Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
  • Old Bay Seasoning: 1/2 tablespoon
  • Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Worcestershire Sauce: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
  • Hot Sauce: 3-4 dashes
  • Crab Meat: 16 ounces, cooked and finely chopped (see notes)
  • Green Onions: 3, thinly sliced

Instructions

Preparation

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the desired temperature for baking.
  2. Mix the Ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, use a handheld mixer to beat the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of Pepper Jack cheese, Old Bay Seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire Sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Combine and Bake

  1. Add Crab Meat and Green Onions:
    Gently stir in the cooked and finely chopped crab meat and thinly sliced green onions into the mixture.
  2. Transfer to Baking Dish:
    Spoon the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar and Pepper Jack cheeses for an extra cheesy layer.
  3. Bake the Dip:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the dish is bubbly and heated through.

Serving

Serve the hot crab dip warm with a variety of dippers such as crostini, Ritz crackers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, pretzel crisps, cucumber slices, tortilla chips, or bagel chips. This dip is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Tips for the Perfect Hot Crab Dip

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dip up to 2 days in advance without baking. Store it well-covered in the fridge. Remove it 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature, then bake fresh for optimal taste.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your preference. Add a few more dashes of hot sauce or a little cayenne pepper for extra spice. If you prefer a milder dip, reduce or skip the hot sauce altogether.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair the dip with a variety of dippers to cater to different preferences. Crostini and crackers are classic choices, while fresh vegetables add a healthy crunch.
See also  Vegan Turmeric Soup

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned crab meat. Ensure it is well-drained and free of any shells before adding it to the mixture. Fresh crab meat will offer the best flavor, but canned is a convenient alternative.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Can I freeze the crab dip?

Freezing the crab dip is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing. For best results, prepare and bake the dip fresh.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella, Gruyere, or even a bit of Parmesan can add unique flavors and textures to the dip.

Is there a substitute for Old Bay Seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay Seasoning, you can make a simple substitute using a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dry mustard, and ground bay leaves.

Conclusion

This hot crab dip is a versatile and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Follow the tips and FAQs to customize the dip to your taste, and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 226kcal per serving
  • Servings: 12

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Enjoy this delightful and creamy hot crab dip as a perfect addition to your appetizer spread!

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