A creamy, spicy crab dip loaded with cheese and Cajun flair, ideal for parties or casual entertaining.
# Components:
→ Dairy
01 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/2 cup sour cream
03 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
04 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seafood
07 - 8 ounces lump crab meat, drained and picked over
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
08 - 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
09 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
10 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
→ Seasonings
11 - 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
14 - 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
15 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
17 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
# Method:
01 - Set oven to 350°F (180°C) and allow to fully preheat.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat with an electric mixer or whisk until completely smooth and creamy.
03 - Add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until thoroughly blended.
04 - Gently fold in lump crab meat, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and minced garlic until evenly distributed.
05 - Season mixture with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until just combined, ensuring not to break down the crab meat.
06 - Spoon mixture into a greased 1-quart (1-liter) baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
07 - Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the mixture is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
08 - Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, accompanied by toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables.