Description
This rich and creamy Pappadeaux Crab and Spinach Dip combines tender lump crab meat, nutritious spinach, and a blend of cheeses and seasonings baked to bubbly perfection. Ideal as an appetizer, this flavorful seafood dip features a subtle kick from Old Bay seasoning and optional cayenne, making it perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry and chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 8 ounces lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cayenne pepper if using, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Cheeses and Spinach: Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and the chopped cooked spinach. Make sure the spinach is well distributed without overmixing to keep the texture intact.
- Incorporate Crab Meat and Season: Gently fold the lump crab meat into the mixture, being careful not to break it up too much. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake the Dip: Transfer the dip mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or crackers for dipping.
Notes
- Serve with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or crackers for best results.
- For a spicier version, add minced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
- You can assemble the dip ahead of time and bake it just before serving to save prep time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
