Baked Crab Dip is a warm, creamy bowl of deliciousness that's perfect for dipping your favorite crackers or veggies into. It's made with sweet crab meat mixed into a rich, cheesy sauce, seasoned just right to make your taste buds happy.
This dip is a big hit at parties, family gatherings, or just a special treat for yourself on a cozy night in. It's super easy to whip up and bakes into a bubbly, golden snack that looks as good as it tastes. If you love seafood and cheesy goodness, this crab dip is definitely for you.
Why This Recipe Works
This Baked Crab Dip recipe is a winner because it combines rich flavors and textures that everyone loves. The cream cheese and sour cream create a smooth and creamy base, while the cheddar cheese adds a sharpness that complements the sweetness of the crab perfectly. The Old Bay Seasoning brings in a little bit of spice and a hint of the sea, making this dip taste like a gourmet treat. Plus, when it's all baked together, the top gets deliciously golden and crispy, while the inside stays warm and gooey.
Another great thing about this recipe is how versatile and forgiving it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences. For example, if you're not a fan of cheddar, you can use any cheese you like. And if crab meat is hard to find or too pricey, you can substitute it with another type of seafood, like shrimp. This recipe is also perfect for making ahead of time, so you can just pop it in the oven before your guests arrive and serve it hot and fresh without any stress. It's a simple, no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor and is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Crab Meat: Sweet and tender, it's the star of the dish. Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor, or canned crab meat as a convenient alternative.
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness. It's the base of the dip. You can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version.
Sour Cream: Gives the dip a tangy flavor and smooth texture. Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute that still maintains the creamy consistency.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, cheesy flavor. Substitute with Gouda or Swiss cheese for a different taste profile.
Old Bay Seasoning: Provides a classic seafood seasoning with a mix of spices. Substitute with a mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if unavailable.
Tips
- Drain the crab meat well to prevent the dip from becoming too watery.
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Mix the ingredients gently to keep the crab pieces intact for a better texture.
- Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Let the dip cool for a few minutes after baking for the flavors to meld together.
How to Serve
Baked Crab Dip is a warm, comforting appetizer that's perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a luxurious snack during a cozy night in. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a hit with everyone. Serve it right out of the oven when it's still warm and gooey for the best experience.
- Pair with a variety of dippers such as sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh vegetables like carrot sticks and cucumber slices.
- Spoon it into a sourdough bread bowl for an impressive presentation and edible serving dish.
- Offer alongside a light salad or fresh fruit to balance the richness of the dip for a complete appetizer spread.
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Crab Dip
Ingredients
- 1 lb crab meat drained and flaked
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup green onions chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Old Bay seasoning, Parmesan cheese, green onions, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break up the pieces too much. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with additional cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with your choice of dippers.
Nutrition
Notes
• Soften the cream cheese before mixing to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Mix the ingredients gently to keep the crab pieces intact for a better texture.
• Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Let the dip cool for a few minutes after baking for the flavors to meld together.