Cold Crab Dip Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cold Crab Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the rich, creamy flavors of cream cheese and sour cream with the delicate sweetness of crab meat. The Old Bay Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend adds a flavorful punch, while the cayenne pepper gives it just the right amount of heat. With a touch of fresh lemon juice and green onions, this dip is the perfect balance of savory and fresh. Whether served as a snack or alongside your favorite crackers or vegetables, it’s bound to be a favorite at your next event.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

• ¾ teaspoon Old Bay Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend

• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 3 tablespoons green onion, thinly sliced (divided into 2 tablespoons for the dip and 1 tablespoon for garnish)

• 12 ounces lump crab meat, juices drained (two 6-ounce cans) (we used Bumble Bee brand)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese for 1-2 minutes, or until fluffy and smooth, using a hand mixer on medium speed.

2. Add the sour cream, fresh lemon juice, Old Bay Garlic & Herb Seasoning Blend, cayenne pepper, and 2 tablespoons of thinly sliced green onions to the bowl with the cream cheese. Stir to combine all ingredients fully.

3. Gently fold the drained lump crab meat into the mixture, taking care not to break up the crab lumps too much.

4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

5. When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and garnish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of thinly sliced green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields about 2 cups of dip, which is enough for 8-10 people, depending on serving size.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including refrigeration time)

Variations

• Spicy Crab Dip: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to amp up the heat in the dip.

• Herb Variation: Experiment with adding other herbs like dill or parsley to create a new twist.

• Creamy Cracker Dip: Swap out the lump crab meat for finely chopped imitation crab for a more budget-friendly option.

• Cheese Addition: Stir in a bit of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for an extra cheesy dip.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: While this dip is traditionally served cold, if you prefer a warm version, you can gently reheat it in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen crab meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen crab meat. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dip.

2. Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s best to make this dip a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully.

3. Can I use a different seasoning blend instead of Old Bay?

Yes, if you don’t have Old Bay, you can substitute with a combination of garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of celery salt.

4. How do I make the dip smoother?

For a smoother dip, use a hand mixer on low speed when blending the ingredients together. You can also blend the crab meat a little more finely if you prefer a less chunky texture.

5. Can I add cheese to this dip?

Yes, adding some shredded cheddar or mozzarella can make the dip even more indulgent and flavorful.

6. Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this dip are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific brands to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

7. Can I serve this dip with something other than crackers?

Absolutely! You can serve this dip with sliced baguette, tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or even toasted pita for dipping.

8. What type of crab is best for this dip?

Lump crab meat is ideal for its sweet, tender texture, but you can use other types of crab meat or even imitation crab if you prefer.

9. Can I make this dip spicy?

Yes, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to make it as spicy as you like.

10. Can I freeze this dip?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dip for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture may change once thawed.

Conclusion

This Cold Crab Dip is an easy and delicious appetizer that will be the star of any party or gathering. With its creamy texture, savory crab meat, and bold seasoning, it’s a perfect combination of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you prepare it ahead of time or serve it as a last-minute treat, it’s sure to impress your guests!