Crimson Crab Cheese Dip

Prep: 240 min Cuisine: American

A creamy, savory crab cheese dip with a hint of horseradish and chili sauce, perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings, offering bold flavors and smooth texture.

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Ingredients

  • 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon horseradish
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup very finely chopped onion
  • 1 bottle Heinz chili sauce
  • 2 cans flaked crabmeat, well drained

Instructions

  1. Mix together cream cheese, horseradish, mayonnaise, and chopped onion.
  2. Let the mixture set overnight.
  3. Shape the mixture on a serving plate.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you want to add a bit more flavor, consider incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning. You can substitute the crabmeat with shrimp or even canned tuna for a variation. This dip is reminiscent of other seafood recipes, like Quiche Lorraine A La Crab.

Serving Suggestions

This dip is perfect for gatherings and can be served with an assortment of crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks. Try pairing it with a chilled white wine or a light beer for a refreshing contrast. It also complements well with dishes like Shrimp Party Salad or pairs beautifully with Crab In Cheese Sauce for a seafood-themed spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to three days. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for easier spreading. You can also gently reheat the dip in the microwave for about 15 seconds at a time, stirring in between, but be careful not to overheat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crimson Crab Cheese Dip contains roughly 1743 calories, with 8g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 185g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1524mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).

1743 kcal 87% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.3g 17% DV
Total Fat 185.1g 100% DV
Carbs 20.3g 7% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 8.7g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1524.4mg 66% DV
Potassium 820.9mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 78.8mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 297.1mcg 33% DV
Vitamin C 79.5mg 88% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 95.3mg 7% DV
Iron 2.3mg 13% DV
Contains Milk Egg

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 make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it the day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just follow the instructions and refrigerate it overnight. Before serving, shape it on a plate and enjoy the enhanced taste.

What can I use instead of crabmeat?

You can easily substitute crabmeat with cooked shrimp or even canned tuna if you prefer. Just ensure they're well-drained and chopped finely to maintain the dip's texture. These alternatives still provide delicious flavor and complement the other ingredients.

Is this dip spicy?

The dip has a mild kick from the horseradish, but it isn't overwhelmingly spicy. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding more horseradish or some diced jalapeños. Adjusting the amount of chili sauce can also enhance the heat level to your liking.

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).

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