This Pappadeaux Crab and Spinach Dip is a creamy, savory appetizer bursting with rich flavors from crab meat, spinach, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for dipping with your favorite chips, crackers, or bread, this dip is sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a snack, this dip will leave everyone craving more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crab and Spinach Dip brings together the best of both worlds: creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the delicate, savory flavors of lump crab and fresh spinach. The Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses melt perfectly, creating a smooth, indulgent dip that’s perfectly balanced with the flavors of garlic, green onions, and a touch of salt and pepper. It’s an easy, quick recipe that makes a big impression—ideal for a party, family gathering, or as a comforting treat to enjoy on your own!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (6 oz) lump crab meat, drained and flaked
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, chopped spinach, green onions, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve warm with crackers, chips, or slices of bread.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
Variations
- Add a Kick: If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
- Use Fresh Crab: Swap the canned crab for fresh crab meat for an even more luxurious dip.
- Make It Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream, and opt for dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to give the dip an extra layer of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the dip in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and bubbly again.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just cover it with plastic wrap and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use imitation crab instead of lump crab meat?
Yes, imitation crab can be used as a more affordable option, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Lump crab meat will provide a more authentic, delicate crab taste.
3. Can I add more cheese to this dip?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of mozzarella or Parmesan if you want a cheesier dip. Adding a little cream cheese will make it even richer.
4. How do I make this dip spicier?
To add heat, mix in some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce before baking.
5. Can I freeze this crab and spinach dip?
Yes, this dip can be frozen before baking. Once it’s assembled, cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
6. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the dip.
7. What should I serve this dip with?
This dip is great with tortilla chips, crackers, pita bread, or even fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery for dipping.
8. Can I make this dip vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the crab meat and increasing the amount of spinach or adding artichokes or mushrooms for added texture.
9. How do I know when the dip is done?
The dip is done when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. If you’re unsure, you can check with a spoon to see if it’s warm throughout.
10. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time if needed. Keep an eye on it as it bakes to ensure the top becomes golden brown and the dip is heated through.
Conclusion
Pappadeaux Crab and Spinach Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with savory crab and fresh spinach. This easy-to-make dip is ideal for parties, gatherings, or even as a cozy appetizer for a night in. It’s flavorful, indulgent, and sure to impress your guests with every bite. Serve it warm with your favorite dipping snacks, and you’ll have a hit appetizer that everyone will rave about!
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Pappadeaux Crab and Spinach Dip
This Pappadeaux Crab and Spinach Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer bursting with the savory flavors of lump crab meat, spinach, and a blend of melted cheeses. Perfect for dipping with chips, crackers, or bread, this indulgent dip is easy to make and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next party, gathering, or cozy night in.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (6 oz) lump crab meat, drained and flaked
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Stir until smooth.
- Gently fold in crab meat, spinach, green onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve warm with chips, crackers, or slices of bread.
Notes
- Add a Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Use Fresh Crab: For a luxurious dip, swap canned crab for fresh crab meat.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream along with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
