Crab And Cheese Appetizer
A creamy, cheesy crab appetizer with a savory onion flavor, perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings. Its rich texture and delightful blend of crab and cheddar make it a crowd-pleaser, especially when served warm with crackers for an irresistible start to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, mayonnaise, and pepper in a bowl and mix well.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese and chopped onion until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the crab meat.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 325°F until puffed and golden, about 25 minutes.
- Serve warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack or Gruyère can be excellent substitutes. To enhance the flavor, try adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Ensure the crab meat is drained well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This appetizer pairs beautifully with crackers or toasted baguette slices. For a complete spread, serve alongside a fresh garden salad or a platter of assorted vegetables. For a twist, consider offering a side of Chilled Crab Dip for additional seafood flavors that complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the appetizer in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab And Cheese Appetizer contains roughly 940 calories, with 43g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (100% of the Daily Value), protein (87% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1405mg 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 imitation crab meat instead of real crab?
Yes, you can use imitation crab meat if you prefer. It will alter the flavor slightly, but it works well in this recipe. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces before folding it into the mixture.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this appetizer healthier, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, which reduces the fat content while adding creaminess. Additionally, consider using low-fat cheese or reducing the cheese amount and adding more vegetables for bulk.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. When ready to serve, bake it just before your guests arrive.
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).