Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Chef Dick's legendary Hot Crab Dip - a creamy, decadent appetizer that will make you the star of any gathering! Imagine diving into a golden, bubbling dish of rich, succulent crab meat blended with velvety cream cheese and sharp cheddar, delivering an explosion of flavor that'll have your guests begging for the recipe. This isn't just another dip; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary appetizer moments into extraordinary memories.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded crab meat
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise, stirring until smooth and well blended.
- Add the shredded crab meat to the cream cheese mixture, gently folding to distribute evenly without breaking up the delicate crab meat.
- Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and fresh lemon juice, mixing well to integrate the flavors.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the dip rest for 5-10 minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable crudités for dipping.
Tips
- • For the most luxurious texture, use fresh lump crab meat instead of canned if possible. • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for smooth blending. • Don't overmix the crab meat to maintain its delicate texture. • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or fresh chopped chives. • Let the dip rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and prevent burning your mouth. • Serve immediately while hot and bubbly for the best taste and presentation. • Experiment with different cheese blends like adding some Gruyère for a more complex flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
