Alright, folks, gather 'round for a taste of southern hospitality with a Cajun Crab Dip recipe that'll knock your socks off. This creamy concoction of cream cheese, cold lump crab meat, and just the right amount of spice is the perfect show-stopping appetizer. So grab your crackers and get ready to indulge in a little taste of Louisiana charm.
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From blackened chicken sandwiches to my famous Cajun butter sauce, I can't stop sharing my love for anything Cajun spiced. And this spicy crab dip is no different. You are going to love this recipe.
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📖What is the best type of crab for crab dip?
When it comes to making the best crab dip, using fresh crab meat is always the top choice. But cracking g all those crab legs yourself takes longer and is more expensive.
Therefore, I recommend using cooked real crab from the refrigerator section. It can be sealed in a plastic container or a can. I prefer lump crab meat over claw meat which has a stronger flavor.
Shelf-stable canned crab can be an economical option but won't have the same flavor.
Imitation crab meat, made from a blend of white fish, is also an option but be sure your imitation crab is gluten-free. Note that the resulting dip will have a seafood dip flavor rather but than a crab dip flavor.
🧾Ingredient Notes
Now that we have the crab meat out of the way let's check out the other ingredients.
Cajun Seasoning- I use my homemade spicy Cajun seasoning blend but you can use storebought. Just remember, Old Bay Seasoning is delicious but it isn't Cajun. It lacks the smokiness and will have a strong celery salt flavor.
The amount of Cajun seasoning you use will vary based on how hot your seasoning. If you like the flavor but want more heat try adding a dash of hot sauce, crushed pepper flakes, or more cayenne pepper.
Cream Cheese- Use regular or low-fat cream cheese. Just be sure to soften it before starting. Softening the cream cheese takes about 1 hour at room temperature.
Mayonnaise- Mayo adds a little tang and additional creaminess without adding cheese. But if you want to avoid eggs use an equal amount of sour cream.
Lemon- I utilize a single lemon, including both the grated outer peel and the juice. Don't have a lemon? Simply include 1-2 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice.
Green Onions- Use sliced scallions or chives.
⏲️ How to Make Cajun Crab Dip
Before starting spread the carb meat out on a plate. Comb through and pick out any shell pieces.
In a large bowl mix together the cream cheese, mayo, and seasoning.
Beating the cream cheese with a hand mixer will make it light and fluffy.
Fold in the crab meat and green onions. Chill for 1 hour before serving.
🥗What to Serve with Spicy Cajun Crab Dip
Crackers, tortilla chips, crusty bread, or fresh veggies are great options for this creamy crab dip. I like to pair this dip with my Mango habanero salsa, salmon crudo, and beet and goat cheese bites for a nice rounded-out appetizer display.
Use leftover dip as a salad, and serve atop sliced avocado and tomato.
Top Tip
Looking for another delicious appetizer? Try this recipe but replace the fresh lump crab meat with smoked trout. A totally new dip recipe with a cajun kick!
🌡️Storing Leftovers
Store leftover crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
This dip also be frozen for longer storage but there will be some change to the texture. Allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
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📖 Recipe Card
Cold Cajun Crab Dip with Cream Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 12 ounces lump crab meat drained
- 4 green onions sliced
- fresh parsley for garnish
Cajun Seasoning Blend
- 1 ½ tablespoons smoked paprika
- ½ tablespoon onion powder
- ½ tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
- Stir together the cream cheese, mayo, lemon juice and zest, and spices.8 ounces cream cheese, ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 lemon, 3 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Stir in the crab meat and green onions.12 ounces lump crab meat, 4 green onions
- Top with fresh parsley and serve with crackers, chips, or crostini.fresh parsley
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