Name: Crab With Sour Cream Dip Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese; 2 cups sour cream; 12 oz crabmeat; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese; ¼ cup Green Onions

Indulge in a delightful blend of flavors with this creamy and savory crab with sour cream dip. Perfect for parties or as a special treat, this dish combines rich cheese, succulent crabmeat, and fresh green onions for an appetizer that’s sure to impress.

Photos of Crab With Sour Cream Dip Recipe

If you don't already have crabmeat at home, it’s often found in the seafood section of your supermarket. You can choose between fresh or canned varieties. Green onions are available in the produce section, and sometimes they are also called scallions.

Ingredients for Crab with Sour Cream Dip

cream cheese: A soft, mild-tasting cheese used to create a creamy base for the dip.

sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the dip.

crabmeat: The star ingredient, providing a sweet and delicate seafood flavor.

cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor and melts beautifully to create a gooey texture.

green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dip.

One reader, Jens Hamrick says:

This crab with sour cream dip is a hit! The blend of creamy and cheesy goodness with the crabmeat is simply irresistible. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Highly recommend!

Jens Hamrick

Techniques Required for Making Crab with Sour Cream Dip

How to preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the dish inside. How to mix ingredients: Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed before transferring to a baking dish. How to bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and cook for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.

How To Make Crab With Sour Cream Dip

Make your meals cheesier and more satisfying with this crab dip made with sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar, and crab meat for a cheesy appetizer.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozcream cheese,softened
2cupssour cream
12ozcrabmeat
2cupscheddar cheese,shredded
¼cupgreen onions,sliced thinly

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Mix all the ingredients together and add to a baking dish then cook for 45 to 55 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 378.21kcal
Fat: 32.53g
Saturated Fat: 18.56g
Trans Fat: 0.40g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.48g
Carbohydrates: 3.48g
Fiber: 0.08g
Sugar: 2.73g
Protein: 18.47g
Cholesterol: 135.99mg
Sodium: 582.93mg
Calcium: 354.73mg
Potassium: 264.04mg
Iron: 0.52mg
Vitamin A: 293.74µg
Vitamin C: 2.51mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Crab with Sour Cream Dip

For a smoother and creamier texture, ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help it blend more easily with the sour cream and other ingredients. Additionally, gently fold in the crabmeat to avoid breaking it up too much, preserving its delicate texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dip Recipe

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out cream cheese, sour cream, crabmeat, cheddar cheese, and green onions in advance to streamline the mixing process.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to save time on grating.

Buy pre-cooked crabmeat: Purchase pre-cooked or canned crabmeat to eliminate the need for cooking and shelling.

Soften cream cheese quickly: Microwave the cream cheese for 15-20 seconds to soften it faster for easier mixing.

Chop green onions in bulk: Chop the green onions in bulk and store them in the fridge for quick access.

Substitute Ingredients For Crab With Sour Cream Dip Recipe

cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tanginess, making it a healthier alternative with added protein.
sour cream - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency, and it can be a lower-fat option.
crabmeat - Substitute with imitation crab: Imitation crab, made from fish, mimics the texture and flavor of real crabmeat and is often more affordable.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dip without overpowering it.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a direct replacement in the dip.

Best Way to Present This Crab Dip

Use high-quality crabmeat: Ensure the crabmeat is fresh and of the highest quality to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Create a smooth base: Blend the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy before mixing with other ingredients. This will ensure a consistent texture.
Incorporate cheddar cheese gradually: Add the cheddar cheese in stages to ensure it melts evenly and integrates well with the sour cream and cream cheese mixture.
Finely chop green onions: Finely chop the green onions to distribute their flavor evenly throughout the dip and add a subtle crunch.
Layer the mixture: In the baking dish, layer the crabmeat mixture evenly to ensure each bite has a balanced taste of all ingredients.
Top with extra cheddar cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top before baking to create a golden, bubbly crust.
Bake to perfection: Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 to 55 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Garnish with fresh green onions: After baking, garnish with freshly chopped green onions to add a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Serve with gourmet accompaniments: Present the dip with an assortment of gourmet crackers, toasted baguette slices, and fresh vegetable sticks for an elegant touch.
Use elegant serving ware: Serve the dip in a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing baking dish or individual ramekins to elevate the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Crab Dip with Sour Cream

Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F and bake the dish.
Mixing bowl: Combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Spatula: Mix and fold the ingredients together.
Baking dish: Transfer the mixed ingredients into this dish for baking.
Measuring cups: Measure out the sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measure out smaller quantities like the ¼ cup of green onions.
Can opener: Open the can of crabmeat if it's canned.
Knife: Chop the green onions finely.
Cutting board: Provide a surface for chopping the green onions.
Hand mixer: Optional, but useful for ensuring the cream cheese and sour cream are well blended.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Crab Dip

Let the crab dip cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, transfer the cooled dip to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the crab dip for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
To thaw, place the frozen dip in the refrigerator overnight or until completely thawed.
After thawing, give the dip a good stir to redistribute any separated ingredients.
Note: The texture of the dip may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavor should remain delicious.
If you prefer a fresher taste and texture, it's best to enjoy the crab dip within a few days of making it and store it in the refrigerator.

How To Reheat Leftover Crab Dip

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover crab dip in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted. Stir the dip halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method helps maintain the original texture and flavor of the dip.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Transfer the leftover dip to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Continue heating until the dip is warmed through and the cheese is melted. Be careful not to overheat the dip, as it may cause the sour cream to separate or become grainy.
If you have a slow cooker or crockpot, you can use it to reheat the crab dip. Place the leftover dip in the slow cooker and heat it on low for 1-2 hours, or until it's heated through. Stir the dip occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is ideal if you want to keep the dip warm for an extended period, such as during a party or gathering.
For a stovetop method, transfer the leftover dip to a saucepan and heat it over low heat, stirring frequently. Be sure to keep the heat low to prevent the cream cheese and sour cream from curdling or separating. Heat the dip until it's warmed through and the cheese is melted, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the crab dip before serving to ensure it hasn't lost its flavor. If needed, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of green onions, or a dash of hot sauce to revive the flavors.

Random Fact About Crab with Sour Cream Dip

A fun fact about this crab dip recipe is that crabmeat is a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, sour cream adds a tangy flavor while providing a creamy texture, making it a delightful appetizer for any gathering.

Is Making This Dip at Home Cost-Effective?

This crab with sour cream dip recipe is moderately cost-effective. The primary expense comes from the crabmeat, which can be pricey depending on the source. However, the other ingredients like cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and green onions are relatively affordable. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $25-$30. Overall verdict: 7/10.

Is This Dip Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This crab dip recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese - are all high in saturated fat and calories. Crabmeat, although a good source of protein, is also relatively high in cholesterol. The only ingredient that could be considered healthy is the green onions, which provide a small amount of vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the cream cheese with a lower-fat alternative, such as Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt
Use reduced-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt instead of regular sour cream
Opt for a lower-fat cheese, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar
Increase the amount of crabmeat to boost the protein content and reduce the overall proportion of high-fat ingredients
Add more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Serve the dip with fresh vegetables or whole-grain crackers instead of high-fat chips or bread

By making these adjustments, you can create a healthier version of this crab dip that still satisfies your cravings for a rich and creamy appetizer. Remember, moderation is key, even with healthier alternatives.

Editor's Thoughts on This Sour Cream and Crab Dip

This crab with sour cream dip recipe is a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese creates a rich, velvety base that complements the delicate sweetness of the crabmeat. The green onions add a subtle hint of freshness and a touch of color. Baking it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 to 55 minutes ensures a warm, bubbly dip that's perfect for any gathering. However, consider adding a dash of lemon juice or Old Bay seasoning for an extra layer of complexity and brightness.

Enhance Your Crab With Sour Cream Dip Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the earthy, caramelized brussels sprouts dancing with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side-dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the creamy richness of the crab dip perfectly.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Mango Avocado Salsa: A vibrant and refreshing salsa made with juicy mangoes, creamy avocado, and a hint of lime. This side-dish brings a tropical twist and a zesty contrast to the savory crab dip.

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic and sprinkled with parmesan cheese. These breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the luscious crab dip, adding a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.

Cucumber Dill Salad: Cucumber Dill Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with fresh dill and a light vinaigrette. This refreshing salad provides a cool and tangy counterpoint to the rich and creamy crab dip.

Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside sweet potato fries seasoned with a hint of cinnamon and paprika. These fries add a touch of sweetness and a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the savory crab dip.

Similar Recipes to Crab with Sour Cream Dip

Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip: Dive into a creamy blend of spinach and artichokes mixed with a medley of cheeses. This warm, gooey dip is perfect for any gathering and pairs wonderfully with crackers or sliced baguette.

Buffalo Chicken Dip: Experience the spicy kick of buffalo sauce combined with tender chicken and a rich, cheesy base. This dip is a crowd-pleaser, especially when served with celery sticks or tortilla chips.

Hot Jalapeño Popper Dip: Get ready for a fiery treat with this dip that features jalapeños, cream cheese, and bacon. It's a perfect appetizer for those who love a bit of heat, best enjoyed with pita chips or vegetable sticks.

Cheesy Bacon Ranch Dip: Indulge in the savory flavors of bacon, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning. This dip is a hit at any party, especially when paired with pretzels or potato chips.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with This Dip

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad and roasted potatoes for a complete meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, all seasoned to perfection. The peppers are then baked until tender, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad to create a well-rounded and hearty meal that will impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the Decadence: Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake that oozes rich, molten chocolate with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast of hot and cold. Garnish with fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. This dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious end to any meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Citrus Delight: Picture a lemon meringue pie with a perfectly balanced sweet and tart lemon curd filling, topped with a fluffy, golden-brown meringue. The crisp pie crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert that brightens up any occasion. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender or basil to the lemon filling for a unique flavor profile.

Why trust this Crab With Sour Cream Dip Recipe:

This crab dip recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the creamy richness of cream cheese and sour cream with the savory goodness of crabmeat. The addition of cheddar cheese and green onions creates a perfect balance of flavors. Baked to perfection, this dish is ideal for any gathering. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the delightful blend of ingredients that guarantee a delicious outcome every time.

Share your thoughts on the Crab With Sour Cream Dip Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even better!

FAQ:

How can I make sure the crab dip is creamy and not too thick?

To ensure the crab dip is creamy, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Also, mix the ingredients thoroughly to avoid any lumps.

Can I use imitation crabmeat instead of real crabmeat?

Yes, you can use imitation crabmeat if you prefer or if it's more convenient. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different from using real crabmeat.

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and store the mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.

What can I serve with this crab dip?

This crab dip pairs well with a variety of dippers like crackers, sliced baguette, tortilla chips, or even fresh veggies like celery and bell peppers.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to customize the dip to your taste. Some popular additions include a splash of hot sauce for some heat, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or even some chopped bell peppers for extra crunch.