Chafing Dish Crabmeat Spread
A rich, creamy crabmeat spread with buttery and tangy flavors, perfect for elegant appetizers or casual gatherings with crackers or toast.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter and cream cheese together.
- Add the crabmeat, chives, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco, then toss to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a chafing dish and serve with melba toast rounds or Ritz crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. If you don't have fresh chives, green onions or parsley can be a great substitute. This crabmeat spread can also be made with imitation crab if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option. Serve it warm for the best taste, similar to Baked Crab Spread(Appetizer).
Serving Suggestions
This crabmeat spread is ideal for parties and can be served with melba toast rounds or Ritz crackers. For a complete appetizer spread, consider pairing it with Tasty Oyster Crackers and a fresh vegetable platter. A chilled white wine or a light beer complements the flavors perfectly, making it a delightful addition to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crabmeat spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the spread in a microwave or an oven at low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the texture creamy; it should not be cooked again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chafing Dish Crabmeat Spread contains roughly 375 calories, with 10g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1408mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned crabmeat for this recipe?
Yes, canned crabmeat can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain it well and flake it before adding to the spread. While fresh crabmeat offers superior flavor and texture, canned crab can still yield a delicious result when prepared correctly.
Is it possible to make this spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crabmeat spread a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just remember to reheat it gently before serving to ensure it's warm and inviting for your guests.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, a mixture of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar can provide a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, you can try using fish sauce, which is another flavorful option that works well with seafood recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).