Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with a mouthwatering Crab Dip that's about to become the star of every gathering! Imagine a luxurious, creamy blend of succulent crab meat, rich cream cheese, and a symphony of herbs and spices that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or looking for a show-stopping game day snack, this Crab Dip with Garlic and Herb Toasts is your secret weapon to instant culinary fame.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb crab meat
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a medium-sized baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and well blended using a hand mixer or whisk.
- Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce to the cream cheese mixture. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break up the meat chunks. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing lightly.
- Transfer the crab dip mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are slightly bubbly.
- While the dip is baking, slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Brush baguette slices with olive oil and sprinkle with dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, if desired.
- In the last 5-7 minutes of the dip's baking time, place baguette slices on a separate baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove the crab dip and toasts from the oven. Let the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Serve the warm crab dip immediately with the freshly toasted garlic and herb baguette slices.
Tips
- Choose High-Quality Crab Meat: For the best flavor, opt for fresh lump crab meat or high-quality canned crab. Avoid imitation crab to ensure an authentic, rich taste.
- Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
- Don't Overmix the Crab: Fold the crab meat gently to maintain those beautiful, delicate chunks. Overmixing can break down the meat and affect the texture.
- Customize Your Herbs: While the recipe calls for parsley, feel free to experiment with fresh chives, dill, or a blend of herbs to suit your taste.
- Toast Baguette Slices Just Right: Watch your baguette slices carefully when toasting to prevent burning. They should be golden brown and crisp.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dip mixture in advance and refrigerate. Just bring to room temperature before baking for best results.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately after baking for the most creamy, decadent experience. Pair with additional garnishes like chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flair.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
