Ah, crab dip—the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re at a summer beach party, even in the dead of winter. It’s that blend of creamy, savory goodness with a hint of ocean breeze, or at least what I imagine an ocean breeze might taste like if it was made of cheese and crab. Last weekend, I whipped it up for a gathering, and it was like a delicious siren’s call, luring everyone to the snack table.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the dip.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with mayonnaise until smooth.
- Gently fold in the drained crab meat, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Add in shredded cheese, minced garlic, and a dash of hot sauce, then stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot, accompanied by your choice of crackers or bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crackers or sliced baguette
FAQ
- What is the main ingredient in the best hot crab dip?
- The primary ingredient in the best hot crab dip is crab. However, the recipe is flexible and can work with other types of protein or even without any seafood if needed.
- Can I use canned crab for this dip?
- Yes, canned crab works well for this dip and can be found in the same section as tuna fish and chopped clams.
- Is it possible to make this dip without seafood?
- Absolutely, you can prepare the dip without any seafood. It will still be a hit at parties, similar to the cream cheese and cocktail sauce appetizer mentioned in the article.
- What should I serve with the hot crab dip?
- The dip pairs well with crackers, like saltines, which complement the flavors nicely.
- Are there any other recipes recommended by the author?
- Yes, the article suggests trying the latest and greatest recipes from Chef John for more culinary inspiration.
Tips
- If crab is not within your budget, you can substitute it with other proteins or even skip the seafood entirely for an equally delicious dip.
- This dip pairs wonderfully with saltine crackers, but you can experiment with different types of crackers or bread for added variety.
- Even inexpensive canned crab works well in this recipe, making it a versatile option for any budget.
- If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider incorporating other shellfish or proteins that you have on hand.
Equipment
- Baking Dish – A suitable dish for baking the dip in the oven.
- Mixing Bowls – If you don’t have a variety of sizes, you might need to purchase.
- Electric Mixer – Useful for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Food Processor – If the recipe involves chopping or pureeing ingredients finely.
- Oven-safe Serving Dish – For serving the dip hot directly from the oven.
