This Creamy Hot Crab Dip is tailored for those who enjoy sophisticated flavors without the hassle of complicated recipes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, game night, or just treating yourself, this dip is a versatile crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture, combined with the delicate taste of crab, makes it a winner among seafood enthusiasts and casual snackers alike.
Recipe FAQ
Q: Can I use imitation crabmeat?
A: Absolutely! While fresh or canned crab is preferred, imitation crabmeat works well and is a budget-friendly alternative.
Q: Can I freeze the dip?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dip due to its creamy texture. However, you can refrigerate any leftovers for up to three days.
Q: Can I make this dip spicy?
A: Certainly! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give your Creamy Hot Crab Dip a spicy kick.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- 6-inch cast-iron skillet or 1-quart baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Creamy Hot Crab Dip:
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened (1 ½ blocks)
- 6 green onions, finely chopped
- 5 tablespoons mayonnaise (¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon)
- 2 6-ounce cans crabmeat, drained (12 ounces total)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese or shredded mozzarella, divided
- Sliced green onions for garnish
For Serving:
- Crackers, chips, celery, or crostini
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for the bubbling perfection of your Creamy Hot Crab Dip.
- Mix and Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped green onions, mayonnaise, drained crabmeat, garlic powder, salt, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined, creating a harmony of flavors.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the creamy mixture into a small 6-inch cast-iron skillet or a 1-quart baking dish. Top it off with the remaining half cup of shredded cheese for that extra gooey goodness.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the dip in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until it becomes irresistibly bubbly.
- Broil for the Finishing Touch: Turn on the broiler and let the dip get that beautiful golden-brown touch on top. Keep a close eye to ensure it’s browned in spots.
- Let It Rest: Remove the dip from the oven and exercise patience by allowing it to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Remember, the dip will be very hot, so caution is key.