Hot Crab Spread For Crackers(Appetizer)
A creamy, savory crab spread with cheddar cheese and a hint of Tabasco, perfect for spreading on crackers at parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the imitation crab, cream cheese, mayonnaise or Miracle Whip, grated Cheddar cheese, and Tabasco together in a mixing bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with Parmesan cheese to taste.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly and slightly browned.
- Serve hot or cold with crackers. Can be reheated in microwave if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute real crab meat for imitation crab, but ensure it's cooked and shredded. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a bit more Tabasco. This recipe is versatile; you can even use it as a filling for baked potatoes or spread on sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot crab spread with a variety of crackers, such as buttery Ritz or whole grain options, for contrast. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh veggie platter for a colorful presentation. For a more filling appetizer, consider serving with toasted baguette slices or alongside a light salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the spread in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can re-bake it at 350°F until warm and bubbly, which will help to refresh the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Crab Spread For Crackers(Appetizer) contains roughly 523 calories, with 28g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1110mg per serving (48% 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
What can I serve with this spread?
This hot crab spread is fantastic with a variety of crackers. To elevate your appetizer selection, consider pairing it with shrimp cocktail or a fresh salad. You could also browse more American recipes for additional ideas to complement this dish.
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).