Hot Crab Cocktail Spread
A creamy, savory crab spread with green onions and toasted almonds, perfect for entertaining or as an appetizer with crackers, offering rich flavors and a warm, inviting presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened cream cheese with milk and Worcestershire sauce.
- Drain and flake crabmeat.
- Add crabmeat and chopped green onion to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Turn the mixture into a greased 8-inch pie plate or shallow baking dish.
- Top with toasted slivered almonds.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or until heated through.
- Keep the cocktail spread warm and serve with assorted crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you want a slight kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the crabmeat with shrimp or lobster for a different flavor profile, or use canned tuna for a more affordable option. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hot Crab Cocktail Spread warm alongside an array of assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. For a complete appetizer platter, consider pairing it with a refreshing salad like Tuna Rice Salad or other seafood recipes. This spread also complements chilled white wine or a light beer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the spread in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may change the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Crab Cocktail Spread contains roughly 147 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (11% 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 spread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spread a day in advance. Simply combine all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just bake it until heated through. This makes it a great option for entertaining or gatherings.
What can I use in place of crabmeat?
If you're looking for alternatives to crabmeat, you can use canned tuna, cooked shrimp, or even shredded cooked chicken. Each option will bring a unique flavor to the spread, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The preparation time for this Hot Crab Cocktail Spread is about 10-15 minutes. After mixing the ingredients and transferring them to a baking dish, it will require about 15 minutes in the oven, making it a quick and delicious appetizer.
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).