Hot Crab Appetizer
A creamy, flavorful crab appetizer topped with toasted almonds, perfect for entertaining or a light starter, pairing well with crackers or bread for a delightful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, milk, crabmeat, chopped onion, horseradish, salt, and pepper together until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into an ovenproof dish.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the mixture.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until heated through and almonds are golden.
- Serve warm with crackers or icebox rye.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a combination of cream cheese and sour cream. If you can't find flaked crabmeat, imitation crab or canned tuna can work as substitutes. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning or Worcestershire sauce. Serve alongside a refreshing salad to balance the richness, or pair it with the popular Season'S Best Shrimp Dip for a delightful appetizer spread.
Serving Suggestions
This hot crab appetizer is perfect for gatherings. Serve it warm with a variety of crackers or toasted bread. It also pairs well with fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast. For an elegant touch, consider serving alongside a chilled Maine Fish Soup to create a seafood-themed spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the crab mixture in an ovenproof dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Crab Appetizer contains roughly 18 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 890mg per serving (39% 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 appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the sliced almonds before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, and you can conveniently bake it right before serving.
What type of crabmeat should I use?
Canned flaked crabmeat is commonly used for convenience, but fresh or frozen crabmeat can elevate the dish. Look for lump or backfin crabmeat for a sweeter taste and better texture.
Can I freeze the crab mixture?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the crab and cream cheese. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze it, ensure it’s in an airtight container and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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).