Crab Dip Cheese Ball: A Delicious Appetizer Recipe for Any Occasion Recipe

Introduction

This Crab Dip Cheese Ball is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. It combines fresh crab meat with sharp cheddar and a blend of seasonings for a crowd-pleasing treat. Easy to make ahead and serve with crackers or veggies.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup crushed pecans or walnuts (for coating)
• Crackers or vegetable sticks (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice. Pour into the large bowl and stir until well combined.
4. Step 4: Fold in the chopped green onions and parsley until evenly distributed.
5. Step 5: Scoop the mixture and shape it into a ball. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up.
6. Step 6: After chilling, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in crushed pecans or walnuts, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.
7. Step 7: Transfer to a serving platter and serve with crackers or vegetable sticks.

Tips & Variations

• For extra zest, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• Try using smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Replace crab meat with cooked shrimp or canned salmon for a tasty variation.
• Toast the nuts lightly before coating for a richer, nuttier flavor.

Storage

Store the cheese ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-chill before serving to maintain firmness. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the crab cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, making the cheese ball a day ahead improves the flavors and allows it to firm up nicely for easier serving.

What can I serve with this crab cheese ball?

It pairs well with assorted crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and cucumber.

Crab Dip Cheese Ball: A Delicious Appetizer Recipe for Any Occasion Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 148 reviews

This Crab Dip Cheese Ball is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and lump crab meat with a zesty blend of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs, it’s rolled in crunchy crushed pecans or walnuts for a delightful texture contrast. Served chilled with crackers or vegetable sticks, this no-cook cheese ball is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Ball Base

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells

Mix-ins

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Coating and Serving

• 1/2 cup crushed pecans or walnuts (for coating)
• Crackers or vegetable sticks (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and beat until smooth and creamy, about 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
2. Add cheese and crab meat: Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl, then gently fold in the lump crab meat carefully so as not to break up the delicate chunks.
3. Mix the flavoring sauce: In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh lemon juice. Stir this mixture well until fully blended.
4. Combine all ingredients: Pour the mayonnaise mixture into the large bowl with cream cheese and crab. Stir well to evenly incorporate all flavors and ingredients.
5. Add fresh herbs: Fold in the finely chopped green onions and parsley to create a fresh and vibrant flavor profile throughout the cheese ball.
6. Form and chill: Scoop the mixture from the bowl and shape it into a compact ball. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up.
7. Coat the cheese ball: After chilling, carefully unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the crushed pecans or walnuts, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres evenly around the ball.
8. Serve: Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter, optionally garnish as desired, and serve chilled with crackers or vegetable sticks for dipping.

Notes

• Make sure the crab meat is well-drained and checked for any shells to ensure a pleasant texture.
• The cheese ball can be made up to 2 days in advance to deepen the flavor.
• For a nut-free version, omit the crushed pecans or walnuts and roll the ball in finely chopped herbs or crushed crackers instead.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor, avoiding bottled lemon juice with preservatives.
• Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Keywords: Crab cheese ball, crab dip, appetizer, cheese ball recipe, party appetizer, no cook appetizer