New England Crab Spread
A creamy, flavorful seafood appetizer featuring crabmeat and bold horseradish notes, perfect for entertaining or a savory snack that resembles a pizza when served.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream cheeses together until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on the bottom of a 9-inch serving plate.
- Combine the cocktail sauce, catsup, sugar, and horseradish; spread this mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the crabmeat over the sauce layer.
- Garnish with parsley.
- Chill for 1 to 2 hours before serving with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother spread, ensure both cream cheeses are at room temperature before mixing. If you want to lighten the dish, consider using low-fat cream cheese. For a kick, add more horseradish or a dash of hot sauce. This crab spread pairs well with a variety of crackers, or even fresh vegetables for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
This crab spread is perfect for entertaining and pairs beautifully with a selection of crackers. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or alongside your favorite seafood recipes for a delightful appetizer spread. A chilled glass of white wine also complements the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen after a day. Avoid freezing as the texture may change when thawed. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Crab Spread contains roughly 65 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 fresh crab meat instead of canned?
Yes, fresh crab meat can be used for a more robust flavor. Just ensure it's properly cooked and shredded to maintain the texture of the spread.
What can I substitute for the cocktail sauce?
If you don't have cocktail sauce, a mix of ketchup and a squeeze of lemon juice can work in a pinch. You can also mix your favorite hot sauce with ketchup for a spicier alternative.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the spread a day in advance. Just follow the instructions and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
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).