Get ready to wow your guests with this irresistible Hot Crab Dip! Packed with fresh, lump crab meat, creamy Neufchatel cheese, and melty mozzarella, this dip is the perfect combination of rich and savory flavors. The touch of soy sauce adds a slight umami depth, while the pimentos and green onions bring brightness and crunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a warm, cheesy snack, this dip is the ultimate party food that’ll have everyone digging in for more!

Scroll to the bottom for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Hot Crab Dip

Hot crab dip has long been a favorite on appetizer menus at seafood restaurants and dinner parties alike. Combining the tender, sweet flavor of crab with a creamy base of cheese and sour cream creates a crowd-pleasing dip that feels both indulgent and comforting. This version includes a few unique additions, like soy sauce for depth of flavor and pimentos for a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it at a fancy event or a casual game day party, this dip brings elegance and flavor to any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of dippers, from crunchy crackers to fresh veggies.

Why Hot Crab Dip Will Be a Hit at Your Next Gathering

This dip is a seafood lover’s dream come true! The lump crab meat brings a fresh, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy Neufchatel cheese and melty mozzarella. The green onions add a slight bite, while the soy sauce enhances the savory notes of the dish. The best part? It’s super easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and 20-25 minutes in the oven. Whether served as an appetizer or a main party snack, this dip is guaranteed to disappear fast!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 13g
• Sodium: 450mg

This dip is rich and satisfying, making it the perfect indulgence for seafood lovers at any event.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Hot Crab Dip is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of dippers. Serve it with crunchy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery, cucumber, or bell peppers for a lighter option. The creamy and cheesy base also pairs well with crispy tortilla chips or pita bread. For an extra seafood twist, try serving it with shrimp chips or fried wonton skins. And of course, no seafood appetizer is complete without a refreshing drink—pair this dip with a crisp white wine or an ice-cold beer for the perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Hot Crab Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dip in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick heat-up. This dip can also be made ahead of time—just prepare the mixture and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, top it with the remaining mozzarella and bake until bubbly!

Fun Fact: Crab Meat – A Delicacy from the Sea

Crab has been a sought-after delicacy for centuries, especially in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. There are hundreds of species of crabs worldwide, but the most commonly used varieties in cooking include blue crab, Dungeness crab, and king crab. Crab meat is known for its delicate, sweet flavor and tender texture, making it a favorite in a wide range of dishes, from crab cakes to bisques. In dips like this one, the mild sweetness of the crab pairs perfectly with rich, creamy ingredients for a truly indulgent treat!

Cooking Tips

1. Use Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor, use fresh lump crab meat if you can find it. If fresh isn’t available, canned crab meat works well too—just be sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly before using.
2. Get a Crispy Top: If you want an extra crispy topping, broil the dip for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. This will give the mozzarella a golden, bubbly finish that’s perfect for dipping.
3. Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick that complements the rich cheese and crab.

Optional Variations

1. Add Bacon: For an extra savory twist, mix in crumbled cooked bacon with the crab mixture. The smoky flavor of bacon pairs beautifully with the creamy crab and cheese.
2. Switch Up the Cheese: While mozzarella melts beautifully, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
3. Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be added for an extra burst of flavor. Simply mix them in with the crab and cheese for a fresh twist.

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Hot Crab Dip Recipe

Ingredients:

• 10 ounces Lump Crab, drained and rinsed
• 1 Tablespoon green onions, finely chopped
• 8 ounces Neufchatel Cheese, softened
• 1 Tablespoon Sour Cream
• 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ¼ cup diced Pimentos, drained
• ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, divided

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small baking dish, approximately 4"x8" (4 cups), and set it aside.
2. Prepare the crab mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab, green onions, Neufchatel cheese, sour cream, soy sauce, lemon juice, pimentos, garlic powder, black pepper, and ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed.
3. Transfer to the baking dish: Spread the crab mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, using a spoon or spatula to smooth it out.
4. Add the topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the crab mixture.
5. Bake the dip: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is hot and bubbly.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the dip to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Final Thoughts

Hot Crab Dip is a luxurious, creamy appetizer that’s perfect for any special occasion or casual gathering. With its rich blend of cheeses, sweet crab meat, and savory seasonings, this dip is sure to be a hit with all your guests. Serve it up warm with your favorite dippers and watch it disappear as everyone indulges in this deliciously decadent seafood treat!