Spicy Buffalo Crab Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer loaded with imitation crab and buffalo sauce, delivering a flavorful kick in every bite. For another crowd-pleasing appetizer, check out my Dill Pickle Dip, one of the most popular dips I have ever shared!
You can never have too many dip recipes, especially for game days or casual gatherings. With the Super Bowl approaching, it’s better to have a variety of appetizers than to run short. Even if you’re spending the day at home with family, adding some delicious snacks to the menu is always a great idea!
Buffalo Crab Dip Ingredients
- Imitation Crab: I chose imitation crab meat for this recipe. Although it’s not real crab, it’s made from whitefish paste and fillers, known as ‘surimi’. It’s still technically seafood and is a comforting ingredient for many, especially in the Midwest. Imitation crab is more affordable and is commonly used in dishes like Minnesota Crab Louie or California rolls. If you prefer real crab, opt for canned lump crab meat or backfin, which are pre-cooked but more authentic.
- Buffalo Sauce: Ensure you use buffalo sauce, not hot sauce. Check the labels if using store-bought buffalo sauce. You can also make your own buffalo sauce at home.
- Ranch Dressing: Just like buffalo sauce, you can use homemade ranch dressing for this recipe. It adds a delightful creaminess to the dip.
How to Make Buffalo Crab Dip
Buffalo Crab Dip is a baked dip, so start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This dip is easy to make and requires only one 9-inch (23-centimeter) oven-safe skillet. Combine the crab, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and half the shredded cheese in the skillet. Mix everything together and top the dip with the remaining half cup of cheese.
Bake the dip, uncovered, for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is hot and bubbly. For an extra golden brown finish, broil the dip for an additional minute. Once cooked and heated through, remove it from the oven and serve warm with baguettes, tortilla chips, pita chips, or crackers.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces (450 grams) imitation crab, chopped
- 8 ounces (1 package) cream cheese, softened (225 grams)
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) buffalo sauce
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) ranch dressing
- 1 cup (100 grams) white cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
- Baguettes, tortilla chips, or crackers, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine Ingredients: In a 9-inch (23-centimeter), oven-safe skillet, mix together the crab, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and ½ cup (50 grams) of the shredded cheese.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup (50 grams) of cheese on top of the mixture.
- Bake the Dip: Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is bubbly. Broil for one minute to get the cheese golden brown.
- Serve: Serve warm with baguettes, tortilla chips, or crackers. Enjoy!
This Spicy Buffalo Crab Dip is a perfect addition to your appetizer lineup and is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy, and flavorful dip at your next gathering!
