Delicious Hot Crab Dip
A creamy, flavorful hot crab dip with crunchy toasted almonds, perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings, combining rich crabmeat with a savory, cheesy base.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, milk, crabmeat, chopped onion, horseradish, salt, and pepper; blend well by hand.
- Spoon the mixture into an ovenproof dish.
- Sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
- Serve with crackers or bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding a bit more milk or a dollop of sour cream. If lump crabmeat is not available, canned crab can be a suitable substitute, though fresh crab will enhance the flavor. To elevate the taste, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning. This dip is perfect for casual gatherings or as a part of a seafood recipes spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot crab dip warm with an assortment of crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It pairs beautifully with your favorite seafood recipes, making it a great appetizer for gatherings. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp salad or a bowl of Jim's Crab Bisque.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Hot Crab Dip contains roughly 139 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1928mg per serving (84% 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 make this crab dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, transfer it to an ovenproof dish, top with almonds, and bake as directed. This will save you time and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of crabmeat?
If crabmeat is unavailable, you can substitute it with shredded cooked shrimp or even a mix of canned tuna and some seasonings to mimic the seafood flavor. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile, but it will still yield a tasty dip.
How do I prevent the dip from becoming too dry?
To keep the dip moist, ensure that you don't overbake it. Baking at the right temperature and for the specified time is crucial. If you find it too thick, consider adding a little more milk or cream cheese to achieve your desired consistency.
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).