Lesa'S Crab Dip
Lesa's Crab Dip combines creamy, cheesy flavors with a hint of spice and fresh crabmeat, perfect for entertaining or a flavorful appetizer for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly sauté chopped green onions in the microwave.
- Mix mayonnaise, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, Louisiana hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice well in a bowl.
- Taste and adjust spices as desired.
- Carefully pick through 1/2 pound of fresh crabmeat and add to the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 300°F for 30 minutes or until set.
- Refrigerate several hours before baking if desired.
- Serve hot with small, sliced French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
When sautéing green onions, do so briefly in the microwave to retain their crunch. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. For an added kick, consider using a dash of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing, and feel free to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crab dip hot, accompanied by small, sliced French bread or crispy crackers for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with fresh vegetable sticks for a refreshing contrast. Consider placing it on a platter with assorted dips like Aunt Clara'S Noodle Pudding to create a delightful appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can alter the texture of the crab and dip.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lesa'S Crab Dip contains roughly 59 calories, with 4g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% 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 fresh crabmeat?
Yes, you can use imitation crab meat if fresh crabmeat is not available. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still yield a delicious dip. Just chop it into small pieces and mix it in as you would with fresh crab.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To increase the heat, add more Louisiana red hot sauce or cayenne pepper according to your taste. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra layer of spice. Start with small amounts to ensure the heat level is to your liking.
Is it possible to make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier. Just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes before reheating.
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).