This Hot Crab Dip is a creamy, savory appetizer perfect for parties, holidays, and game-day gatherings. Made with rich cream cheese, tangy lemon juice, crabmeat, and a subtle kick of hot pepper sauce, this dip bakes into a warm and luscious spread that pairs beautifully with crackers, crostini, or sliced vegetables. Originating from classic mid-century American entertaining, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish known for its balance of creaminess, freshness, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 6 oz crabmeat (drained)
- ¼ cup onion (minced )
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ⅛ tsp hot pepper sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cream Cheese
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in mayonnaise, crabmeat, minced onion, lemon juice, and hot pepper sauce until fully combined.
Step 3: Bake the Dip
- Transfer the mixture into an ovenproof baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve warm with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables.
Tips
- Substitute part of the crab with shrimp for a mixed-seafood dip.
- Add shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for an extra-cheesy version.
- Stir in minced green chilies or extra hot pepper sauce for more heat.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs or Parmesan on top before baking for a golden crust.
- Use fresh lump crabmeat instead of canned for a more luxurious texture.
- Add minced bell pepper or celery for additional crunch and freshness.
- Serve with crackers, baguette slices, celery sticks, or endive leaves.
- Prepare ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Double the recipe for parties or potlucks.
Nutrition
Calories: 145kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.5gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 295mgPotassium: 70mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.5mg
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