Prepare to fall in love with this delectable crab dip that is both creamy and spicy. It’s so irresistible that you’ll find yourself eagerly using a cracker to scrape every last bit from the corners of the serving dish. Beth and I couldn’t resist devouring it when we tested it in the Budget Bytes Kitchen (all in the name of research, of course, 😂). The best part is that it only requires three simple steps to put together, and you have the option to serve it hot or cold. Get ready to impress everyone at your next party with your new go-to dish.
What You’ll Need
You can whip up this crab dip in just ten minutes. If you have the time, chilling it will help thicken the cream cheese base, but it’s not necessary if you’re in a hurry. Simply serve it in a container placed over ice. Alternatively, if you prefer a hot dip, you can bake it for a few minutes.
The authentic crab meat comes with a hefty price tag, therefore we opted for the imitation crab meat, which turned out to be absolutely delightful. Consider it as embarking on a personal adventure, but I highly recommend going for the fish forgery. However, if you decide to go for the real crab, ensure you drain it thoroughly to avoid ending up with a watery dip.
Cream cheese functions as a binding agent, effectively holding all the ingredients together. Additionally, it enhances the thickness and texture of your dip.
Sour cream is known for its unmistakable tanginess and creamy texture.
The shreds of cheddar cheese will enhance the texture while imparting a bold and earthy flavor.
The mixture of celery salt, red and black pepper, mustard powder, cayenne, and paprika known as Old Bay Seasoning provides a zesty spiciness that complements the crab meat’s natural sweetness without overwhelming it. If desired, Cajun seasoning or Crab Boil seasoning can be used as alternatives.
Garlic Powder offers a more subtle alternative to raw garlic in a crab dip, as its roasted notes provide a mellowed flavor that doesn’t overpower the dish.
Hot Sauce: Infuses a smoky spiciness. Add as much or as little as you please. Alternatively, red pepper flakes or cayenne can be used as substitutes for hot sauce.
Lemon juice or white vinegar is essential to balance out the richness of the cream cheese and sour cream.
Scallions are a great addition as they bring a mild onion taste, delightful texture, and a touch of freshness. For added flair, you can use chopped Italian parsley or finely chopped raw onion as a garnish. To tame the sharpness of raw onion, simply soak it in cold water for a minute.
For the perfect pairing with crab, opt for plain or subtly flavored crackers that won’t overpower its taste. Make sure your toasted bread and chips are sturdy enough to withstand dipping without breaking. As for raw veggies, sweet peppers, celery sticks, and carrot sticks are all convenient and budget-friendly options to consider.
Do I Serve Crab Dip Hot or Cold?
It is possible to choose either option! For a hot version, simply add an extra 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar on top and heat in a 350°F oven until the cheese is melted and the crab dip becomes bubbly. This should take around fifteen minutes. On the other hand, if you prefer a cold serving, refrigerate the crab dip for at least thirty minutes. In case you’re short on time, place the crab dip container on a bed of ice and serve immediately.
What Goes With Crab Dip?
In addition to the traditional accompaniments of crackers, toasted bread, chips, and raw vegetables, crab dip can also be utilized as a delectable spread for toast or chicken. It can be drizzled over fried eggs or french fries for an extra burst of flavor. It is advisable to opt for milder flavors that harmonize with the natural sweetness of the crab, so as not to overpower its exquisite taste.
How To Store Leftovers
To preserve leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and cover the surface of the dip with plastic film or wax paper. Store in the refrigerator for a maximum of five days or in the freezer for up to three months. For thawing frozen crab dip, place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you wish to serve the thawed crab dip hot, reheat it in a 350°F oven.
How to Make Crab Dip – Step by Step Photos
Combine 4 ounces of cream cheese and 1/4 cup of sour cream in a medium bowl. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth.
Combine 1 1/2 teaspoons of Old Bay Seasoning, 1 1/2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 2 green onions that are sliced into 1/8th inch rounds (equivalent to approximately 2 tablespoons).
Combine 8 ounces of imitation crab with 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes and pair with crackers, bread, chips, or fresh vegetables. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, place the serving dish on a bed of ice and serve immediately. Prepare yourself for the amazing crab dip that will surely impress everyone!
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