Classic Cold Crab Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Classic Cold Crab Dip is a refreshing and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Creamy, tangy, and with a little kick, it combines fresh crab meat with a zesty cocktail sauce for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups lump crab meat
• 12 oz spreadable cream cheese (tub style)
• 1 lemon
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp horseradish
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• Fresh parsley for topping

Instructions

1. Step 1: Zest the lemon and then squeeze out the juice, separating it into two equal portions.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the lump crab meat with the lemon zest, half of the lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Mix gently to blend flavors.
3. Step 3: Prepare the cocktail sauce by mixing ketchup, the remaining half of the lemon juice, horseradish, and hot sauce in a separate bowl.
4. Step 4: On a serving plate, spread the cream cheese in a circle, creating a base layer.
5. Step 5: Place the seasoned crab meat evenly over the cream cheese layer.
6. Step 6: Pour the prepared cocktail sauce over the crab meat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor, but canned crab can work in a pinch.
• Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the spice level to your preference.
• Serve with sturdy crackers or sliced baguette for easy dipping.
• For a creamier dip, soften the cream cheese slightly before spreading.

Storage

Store any leftover crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because it’s made with fresh seafood, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat is not recommended; serve cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab for this recipe?

While imitation crab can be used, it lacks the texture and flavor of real lump crab meat. For the best taste, fresh or high-quality canned lump crab is recommended.

How far in advance can I prepare this dip?

It’s best to assemble the dip just a few hours before serving to maintain freshness and texture. The crab meat is delicate and the flavors are brightest when fresh.

Classic Cold Crab Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 127 reviews

A refreshing and tangy Classic Cold Crab Dip featuring sweet lump crab meat, creamy spreadable cream cheese, and a zesty cocktail sauce kick-started by fresh lemon juice, horseradish, and hot sauce. Perfect as an appetizer for gatherings, this no-cook dip combines bright flavors and smooth textures for a crowd-pleasing seafood treat.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crab Mixture

• 1.5 cups lump crab meat
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon (divided into two halves)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Cocktail Sauce

• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp horseradish
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (second half from above)

Base and Garnish

• 12 oz spreadable cream cheese (in a tub)
• Fresh parsley for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare Lemon: Zest the lemon thoroughly, then squeeze the lemon juice and separate it into two equal portions for use in different parts of the dip.
2. Mix Crab Meat: In a bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat with the lemon zest, half of the lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Toss carefully to keep crab lumps intact while infusing bright citrus aroma and subtle smoky flavor.
3. Make Cocktail Sauce: In a separate bowl, stir together the ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, and the remaining half of the lemon juice until smooth and well blended, creating a tangy and spicy accompaniment.
4. Spread Cream Cheese: On a serving plate, spread the cream cheese evenly in a circular shape to form the creamy base layer of the dip.
5. Layer Crab Meat: Spoon the seasoned crab meat mixture over the cream cheese layer, distributing evenly but gently to maintain texture and presentation.
6. Add Cocktail Sauce and Garnish: Pour the cocktail sauce over the crab meat layer, allowing some to drizzle down the sides, then finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top to add color and a fresh herbal note.

Notes

• Use high-quality lump crab meat for best flavor and texture; fresh or canned can be used depending on availability.
• Adjust hot sauce quantity to your preferred spice level for more or less heat.
• This dip is best served chilled; refrigerate for an hour before serving to let flavors meld.
• Great served with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
• For a smoother cocktail sauce, you can blend the ketchup and horseradish components briefly.

Keywords: crab dip, cold crab dip, seafood appetizer, crab meat dip, creamy crab dip, no-cook dip, party appetizer