Hot Creamed Crab
Hot Creamed Crab is a rich, creamy appetizer featuring tender crabmeat blended with smooth cream cheese, mayonnaise, and zesty lemon, topped with toasted almonds. Perfect for entertaining or special occasions, it offers a luxurious flavor profile with a hint of heat from cayenne pepper, served warm for maximum indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth using a small electric mixer.
- Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, flour, and cayenne pepper. Beat again until smooth.
- Fold in chopped crabmeat, toasted almonds, and salt to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and bake at 300°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Place over heat using a candle or other heating device before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you want to lighten the dish, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. For added flavor, try incorporating some minced garlic or green onions. If using canned crabmeat, drain it well to avoid excess moisture. This dish can also be customized with different seafood; explore variations with shrimp or scallops.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot creamed crab as an appetizer with toasted baguette slices or crackers for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Consider serving it alongside an elegant seafood dish like Baked Perch Fillets for a delightful meal. For a complete spread, offer some chilled white wine to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 300°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture. For best results, serve fresh to enjoy the creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Creamed Crab contains roughly 879 calories, with 30g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 476mg per serving (21% 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 use imitation crab meat instead of real crab meat?
Yes, imitation crab meat can be used as a substitute for real crab meat in this recipe. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still provide a deliciously creamy dish. Just ensure to chop it finely and mix it well with the other ingredients to maintain the texture.
What can I do if the mixture is too thick?
If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of cream to achieve your desired consistency. Mixing in some additional lemon juice can also help to loosen it up while enhancing the flavor. Just add a little at a time until it reaches the right texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors.
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).