Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Hot Crab Dip, a perfect appetizer that brings a gourmet touch to any gathering. The combination of tender crabmeat, smooth cream cheese, and sharp cheddar makes each bite irresistibly creamy and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy snack, this dip promises a delightful and comforting experience.
This recipe is super easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes in total. The warm, bubbly cheese topping adds an inviting aroma that enhances your anticipation before the first scoop.
- Quick and simple to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Rich, creamy texture with a delicious blend of crab and cheese.
- Perfect for parties, game days, or casual snacks with crackers or veggies.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese (12 ounces softened): Provides a rich and velvety base for the dip, helping bind all ingredients smoothly.
- Green Onions (6 finely chopped): Adds a mild oniony freshness and subtle crunch to balance the creaminess.
- Mayonnaise (5 tablespoons): Enhances creaminess and adds a slight tang to complement the crab.
- Crabmeat (2 cans, 6 ounces each, drained): The star ingredient offering sweet and delicate seafood flavor.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Introduces mild garlicky warmth to deepen overall flavor.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Heightens all flavors making the dip savory and satisfying.
- Shredded White Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, divided): Melts into gooey perfection, providing sharp cheesy notes and a golden crust.
- Sliced Green Onions (for garnish): Adds visual appeal and an extra hint of fresh onion flavor.
- Crackers, Chips, Celery, or Crostini: Ideal for dipping and serving with this decadent crab dip.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
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Set your oven to 350° Fahrenheit (175° Celsius) to prepare for baking the dip. This temperature allows the cheese to melt evenly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Combine the Base Ingredients
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In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese, finely chopped green onions, mayonnaise, drained crabmeat, garlic powder, salt, and half of the shredded white cheddar. Mixing well ensures every bite is packed with balanced flavor and creamy texture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish
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Spread the crab mixture evenly into a small 6-inch cast-iron skillet or a 1-quart baking dish. Topping with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese creates a luscious, golden crust once baked.
- Bake Until Bubbly
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbling around the edges. This heat intensifies flavors and cooks everything perfectly.
- Broil for a Golden Top
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Turn on the oven broiler and broil the dip just until the cheese topping is browned in spots. This adds appealing texture and enhances the visual appeal with a slightly crispy cheesy finish.
- Rest Before Serving
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Remove the dip from the oven and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time allows it to thicken slightly and cool down for safe and enjoyable eating.
- Optional: Make Crostini
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Slice a baguette into 1/2-inch pieces and bake at 350° Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes sprinkled with salt, until edges turn golden but still firm. These crostini perfectly complement the crab dip’s creamy texture.
- Always drain canned crab thoroughly to avoid watery dip consistency.
- Use fresh cream cheese softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- The dip stays hot and bubbly longer when served in a cast-iron skillet.
Storage Tips
Store leftover crab dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain its creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy crab dip warm with an array of dippers like crisp celery sticks, buttery crackers, kettle chips, or homemade crostini for a crowd-pleasing appetizer experience.
- Gently fold crabmeat into the mixture to keep chunks intact for better texture.
- Try switching cheddar with mozzarella for a milder taste and gooier melt.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before baking brightens the dip’s overall flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh crab instead of canned?
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Yes, fresh cooked crab can be used. Just make sure it is fully cooked and shredded for the best texture.
- Is this dip gluten free?
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The dip itself is gluten free, but serve it with gluten-free crackers or veggies if you want a gluten-free appetizer.
- How spicy is this crab dip?
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This version is mild and creamy. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to introduce heat if desired.
- Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for fresh warmth.
- What cheese works best for this crab dip?
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Sharp white cheddar offers a nice balance of flavor and meltability, though mozzarella or a blend can also be delicious.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
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Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese and crab mixture when thawed.
Creamy Hot Crab Dip
Equipment
- 1 oven preheated to 350°F
- 1 6-inch cast-iron skillet or 1-quart baking dish
- 1 baking sheet for crostini, optional
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cream cheese softened (1 ½ blocks)
- 6 green onions finely chopped
- 5 tablespoons mayonnaise ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon
- 12 ounces crabmeat drained (two 6-ounce cans)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese or mozzarella divided
- sliced green onions for garnish
- crackers chips, celery, or crostini for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, mayonnaise, drained crabmeat, garlic powder, salt, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a 6-inch cast-iron skillet or 1-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the dip is bubbly.
- Turn on the broiler and broil until the cheese is browned in spots.
- Remove from oven and let the dip rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: To prepare crostini, slice a baguette into ½-inch pieces, sprinkle with salt, bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until lightly golden, then cool.
Notes
- Use gluten-free crackers or bread for a gluten-free version.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3 days.
- Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
- Crostini enhances the texture but chips or celery can be used for dipping.
