Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 1/2 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3-4 dashes hot sauce
- 16 ounces crab meat, cooked and finely chopped (see notes)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet and set aside.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Pepper Jack cheese, Old Bay Seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Add Crab Meat and Green Onions: Gently fold in the finely chopped crab meat and thinly sliced green onions until evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish or skillet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is golden and bubbly around the edges.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let the dip cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional sliced green onions if desired. Serve warm with crackers, bread slices, or vegetable crudites for dipping.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Choosing Crab Meat: For the best flavor and texture, opt for lump crab meat or claw meat. Avoid using imitation crab meat, as it won’t provide the same richness and sweetness.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until needed. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Add Some Heat: If you prefer a spicier dip, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Enhance with Fresh Herbs: For a pop of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the baked dip just before serving.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use canned crab meat for this recipe? A: While fresh crab meat is preferred for its flavor and texture, you can use canned crab meat as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain it well before chopping and adding it to the dip.
Q: How long does crab dip last in the refrigerator? A: Properly stored in an airtight container, crab dip will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to enjoy it within 1-2 days of making.
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time and freeze it? A: While you can technically freeze crab dip, the texture may change slightly upon thawing, becoming slightly grainy. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you do choose to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Q: Is this dip suitable for a keto diet? A: Yes, this crab dip can be enjoyed as part of a keto diet, as it is low in carbohydrates and high in fat and protein. Serve it with keto-friendly dippers such as cucumber slices or pork rinds.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can modify the recipe:
- Mayonnaise Choice: Opt for a mayonnaise made with avocado oil or olive oil to keep the dip keto-friendly.
- Adjust Serving Options: Instead of traditional crackers or bread slices, serve the dip with keto-friendly options like celery sticks, bell pepper slices, or almond flour crackers.
- Reduce Onion Amount: To lower the carb content further, reduce the amount of onion used or omit it altogether.
This Crab Dip is the epitome of indulgence, combining creamy textures with savory crab meat and a medley of aromatic seasonings. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, game day gathering, or simply treating yourself to a special snack, this dip is guaranteed to impress. With its versatile nature and irresistible flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and get ready to savor every decadent bite!
Do you have any questions or suggestions about this recipe? Feel free to leave a comment below!
