Hot Crabmeat Appetizer
Creamy crabmeat appetizer with toasted almonds, perfect for entertaining or special occasions, offering rich flavors with a hint of horseradish and a crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except almonds, mixing until well blended.
- Spoon mixture into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Serve warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have crabmeat, canned tuna can be a suitable substitute. Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially if using salted crabmeat. This recipe can also be customized with different herbs or spices to suit your palate.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot crabmeat appetizer warm alongside a selection of crackers or sliced baguette for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or vegetable platter for a balanced meal. For a full seafood experience, consider browsing more seafood recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the texture of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Crabmeat Appetizer contains roughly 23 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 891mg 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 appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the toasted almonds before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
What type of crackers work best with this dish?
Choose sturdy crackers like water crackers or whole grain varieties to hold up against the creamy mixture. Additionally, consider pairing with pita chips for a different texture and flavor combination.
Can I use fresh crab instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crab meat can elevate the dish's flavor. Just make sure to cook and season it appropriately before mixing it with the other ingredients. Fresh crab will give a sweeter, more delicate taste.
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).