Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oven-Baked Creamy Crab Dip with Old Bay?
It is a rich, savory seafood appetizer made with cream cheese, tender crabmeat, and Old Bay seasoning, topped with toasted almonds and baked until bubbly.
What are the primary ingredients in this crab dip?
The main ingredients include 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 7.5 ounces of crabmeat, grated parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, milk or half-and-half, prepared horseradish, Old Bay Seasoning, and slivered toasted almonds.
How do I prepare the crabmeat for this recipe?
The crabmeat should be drained and flaked with a fork before being added to the mixture.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for the best results.
How long does the crab dip need to bake?
Bake the dip for approximately 15 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly around the edges.
What size baking dish should be used?
A 9-inch pie plate or any similar oven-proof serving dish is ideal.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, you should grease the pie plate or serving dish before adding the crab mixture.
Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?
Yes, you can use 2 tablespoons of either milk or half-and-half to achieve the desired consistency.
How much Old Bay seasoning is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of Old Bay Seasoning, though you can adjust this to customize the spice level.
What purpose does the horseradish serve in this dip?
Prepared horseradish adds a subtle hint of heat and tanginess that complements the savory crab and cream cheese.
When should I add the toasted almonds?
Evenly sprinkle the slivered and toasted almonds on top of the mixture before placing the dish in the oven.
What can I serve with this creamy crab dip?
It is delicious when served warm with an assortment of crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetable sticks.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
How many calories are in a serving of this dip?
There are approximately 65 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 4.4 grams of fat.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are approximately 3.6 grams of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
There are approximately 2.3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I add other vegetables to the mixture for texture?
Yes, you can consider adding crunchy chopped celery for extra texture.
Is the cream cheese supposed to be softened?
Yes, using softened cream cheese ensures all ingredients blend together smoothly and creamily.
How much parmesan cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
How much onion should be used?
You should use 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion.
Should the dip be served immediately after baking?
It is best to let the dip cool slightly after removing it from the oven before serving.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish.
How do I mix the ingredients?
Combine the ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly until the mixture is well blended.
What provides the 'crunch' in this recipe?
The 1/3 cup of slivered and toasted almonds sprinkled on top provides a crunchy texture.
Can this dip be considered a keto-friendly appetizer?
With 4.4g of fat and only 2.3g of carbs, it fits many low-carb and keto dietary profiles.
Is this recipe suitable for entertaining?
Yes, it is specifically described as perfect for entertaining, parties, or a cozy night in.
What kind of crabmeat should I buy?
You can use canned or fresh crabmeat, as long as it is 7.5 ounces, drained, and flaked.
How much horseradish is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of prepared horseradish.
What makes this dip 'creamy'?
The combination of softened cream cheese and milk or half-and-half creates the irresistible creamy texture.