Layered Crab And Cream Cheese Dip
A creamy, savory layered crab dip with green onions, cocktail sauce, and spices, perfect for parties and seafood lovers seeking a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the Philadelphia cream cheese, lemon juice, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and finely chopped green onion.
- Chill the mixture until ready to serve.
- Shape the chilled mixture into a patty.
- Mix together cocktail sauce, horseradish, and Tabasco.
- Pour this sauce mixture over the crabmeat.
- Spread the crabmeat evenly over the sauce.
- Press down gently on top of the layers.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream. If you're looking for a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can enhance flavor. To save time, canned crabmeat works well, but fresh crab will elevate the dish even more. Be sure to adjust horseradish and Tabasco to suit your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks for a refreshing pairing. It makes a fantastic appetizer for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Smoked Salmon Tarts. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad like Agnes' Macaroni Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier the next day. To serve, you can enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating, as it may alter the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Crab And Cream Cheese Dip contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% 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 dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese and crab layers a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop, but be sure to add the garnish just before serving for a fresh presentation.
What type of crabmeat is best to use?
While canned crabmeat is convenient, using fresh crabmeat will provide a superior taste and texture. Look for lump crabmeat for the best results. If using canned, make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.
Can I customize the spice level of the dip?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of horseradish and Tabasco to your liking. If you prefer milder flavors, start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired heat level. This way, everyone can enjoy the dip.
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).