Crab and Cheese Delight Dip

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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This Crab and Cheese Delight Dip is the ultimate party starter — creamy, cheesy, and packed with succulent crab meat. Perfect for any gathering or simply a cozy night in, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Crab and Cheese Delight Dip

Cream cheese creates the creamy base that holds the dip together. It's important to soften it first to ensure smooth mixing. Sour cream adds a tangy note, while mayonnaise brings additional richness. A touch of lemon juice brightens up the flavors, cutting through the richness just enough. Worcestershire sauce adds depth, and a dash of hot sauce gives a gentle kick. Garlic powder and onion powder provide subtle savory notes, complemented by the earthy warmth of smoked paprika. The star of the dish, lump crab meat, offers a sweet, delicate flavor and satisfying texture. Cheddar cheese melts into the mix, adding sharpness, while green onions introduce a fresh, mild bite. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and don't forget the grated parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh crab meat if possible for the best flavor, but canned or frozen will work in a pinch.
  • For a smoother dip, mix the base ingredients with a hand mixer instead of a spoon.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions

This dip is a knockout with crunchy baguette slices, crispy tortilla chips, or even vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. For a more substantial bite, serve it with warm pretzel bites or garlic bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change. It's best enjoyed fresh.

Crab and Cheese Delight Dip Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures it's ready for baking once you've mixed everything together. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir them until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This creates the creamy base for your dip.

Next, add in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. These ingredients will infuse the dip with layers of flavor.

Now, gently fold in the crab meat, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Be careful not to break up the crab too much — you want nice chunks in every bite. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top for that irresistible crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and prevents eager mouths from burning!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Richly creamy texture with a hint of zest from lemon juice and hot sauce.
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
  • Perfectly balanced flavor with the smoky touch of paprika and savory Worcestershire sauce.
  • A versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of dippers.

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
8 oz lump crab meat
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Stir in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
4. Gently fold in the crab meat, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle the top with grated parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Allow to cool slightly before serving with crackers or bread.

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