Seafood Ball
A creamy seafood ball made with crabmeat and cream cheese, this appetizer offers rich flavors with a hint of lemon and garlic. Perfect for entertaining, it pairs well with crackers or Triscuits and is served chilled with cocktail sauce and a sprinkle of parsley flakes for a fresh finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the softened cream cheese and drained crabmeat thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into a ball or log and place in a serving dish.
- Chill until ready to serve.
- At serving time, pour chilled cocktail sauce over the seafood ball and sprinkle with parsley flakes.
- Serve with Triscuits or crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is well softened before mixing. If you can't find crabmeat, imitation crab or even cooked shrimp can be a good substitute. Adjust the garlic salt to your taste, and consider adding a splash of hot sauce for a kick. This seafood ball can be tailored to your preferences, making it versatile for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the seafood ball with a selection of Triscuits or your favorite crackers for an easy appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light beer. For a more substantial spread, consider adding fresh vegetable sticks or a side of sliced baguette. This dish is perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover seafood ball in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing, as cream cheese does not thaw well. When ready to serve again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Ball contains roughly 5 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 the seafood ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the seafood ball a day in advance. Just shape it and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
What can I use instead of crabmeat?
If crabmeat isn't available, you can substitute it with imitation crab, cooked shrimp, or even a mix of seafood like lobster or scallops. Each will provide a unique flavor while still complementing the cream cheese base.
How can I make the seafood ball spicier?
To add some heat, mix in a few dashes of hot sauce into the cream cheese and crab mixture. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving, or serve with a spicy cocktail sauce for an extra kick.
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).