Suzanne'S Crabmeat Spread
A creamy seafood dip featuring crabmeat, horseradish, and cocktail sauce, perfect for entertaining or a flavorful appetizer for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream cheese, grated horseradish, and mayonnaise together.
- Spread the mixture on a serving dish with an edge.
- Pour 3/4 of the bottle of cocktail sauce over the cheese mixture.
- Crumble the drained crabmeat on top.
- Chill the spread and serve with Triscuits or your favorite crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother spread, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or using a spicier horseradish. Instead of crabmeat, you could substitute with canned tuna or shrimp for a variation that aligns with American recipes like Poor College Student Tuna Melts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crabmeat spread alongside Triscuits or your favorite crackers for a delightful appetizer. It also pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices or bell pepper strips. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a light salad or on a bagel, similar to the Shrimp Cracker Spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crabmeat spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Suzanne'S Crabmeat Spread contains roughly 967 calories, with 6g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1067mg per serving (46% 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 make this spread ahead of time?
Yes, this crabmeat spread can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare the mixture, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to add the crabmeat and cocktail sauce right before serving.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will add creaminess while reducing calories. However, keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust the seasoning as needed.
Is it possible to use fresh crab instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat will elevate the flavor of your spread significantly. Just ensure that the crab is cooked and well-drained before mixing it in. This substitution will provide a fresher taste and a delightful texture.
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).