Mary'S Cheezy Crab Dip
Creamy, cheesy crab dip with a hint of lemon and seafood seasoning, perfect for parties or gatherings, served warm with chips or bread for a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded Cheddar cheese (1 1/4 cups), mayonnaise, seafood seasoning, lemon juice, prepared mustard, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Fold in the crab meat gently.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth before adding the other ingredients. If you don't have seafood seasoning, a mix of Old Bay and paprika can work as a substitute. For a twist, try adding chopped jalapeños for some heat or serve with crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. This dip is also great as a filling for Cheesy Crab-Stuffed Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip warm with an array of dippers like toasted baguette slices, crackers, or vegetable sticks. It pairs beautifully with Broiled Flounder for a seafood-themed meal or alongside your favorite American recipes. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cheezy Crab Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer it to an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Cheezy Crab Dip contains roughly 225 calories, with 12g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 477mg 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 canned crab meat instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dip. Fresh crab meat typically has a better flavor and texture, so if possible, opt for that. If using canned, look for high-quality brands for the best taste.
Is there a way to make this dip spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick. Alternatively, consider mixing in some red pepper flakes or using a spicy seafood seasoning blend to enhance the flavor profile.
Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!
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).