Shrimp And Crab Spread
A creamy seafood spread combining shrimp, crab, and a savory mushroom base, perfect for entertaining or as a delicious appetizer with crackers or chips.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the cream of mushroom soup.
- In a large bowl, stir the Knox gelatine and water until blended.
- Add the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and hot soup; mix with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Fold in the drained shrimp and crab meat.
- Cover and refrigerate until set, approximately 2 hours.
- Serve with crackers or chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is very soft before mixing. You can substitute the canned shrimp with fresh shrimp if you prefer, just cook and chop them beforehand. If you want to add more flavor, consider mixing in some lemon juice or Old Bay seasoning. This shrimp and crab spread is a delightful addition to your appetizer table, especially when paired with crackers or chips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this shrimp and crab spread with a variety of crackers or chips for dipping. For a more substantial appetizer, consider pairing it with a light salad or a side of Sea Slaw to balance the richness. This dish also makes a great topping for toasted baguette slices or as part of a seafood platter alongside Easy Seafood Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the spread to come to room temperature before serving. While it can be enjoyed cold, a quick warm-up in the microwave for a few seconds can enhance the flavors without compromising texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Crab Spread contains roughly 479 calories, with 15g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 847mg per serving (37% 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 seafood instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh shrimp and crab meat instead of canned. Just be sure to cook the shrimp beforehand and chop everything into small pieces. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your spread, making it a more fresh and vibrant dish.
How long does this spread need to set?
The spread requires about 2 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. This allows the gelatine to firm up and the flavors to meld together. For best results, prepare it in advance and let it chill overnight for an even richer taste.
Can I make this spread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This shrimp and crab spread can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it tightly before refrigerating. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop further, making it even tastier when served.
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).