Once you make this crab dip, you’ll have this recipe on repeat! The possibilities are endless for you to customize the flavor to exactly how you’d like it. I’ll be sharing lots of options.

This football dip is fun for game day, pop warner parties, super bowl, or any football celebrating, everyone will want to dive right into it. And as you can see from the next photo, you don’t have to mold it, you can serve it however you like. Hot or cold, molded or unmolded. More options are coming…

Crab Options:

I typically use canned lump crab, fresh is a great option, I have used regular canned crab but really prefer the flavor of the lump crab better. I have made this dip with shrimp, you can use fresh cooked shrimp (or crab) that you finely dice, or canned tiny shrimp, imitation crab, or lobster is another option. The flavor of the crab or shrimp infuses into the whole dip as it’s cooking.

The garlic and onion give it a great flavor and I really like adding some old bay seasoning. Add salt to taste before you pour the dip out of the saucepan.

In a saucepan combine:

• tomato sauce
• onion
• cream cheese
• Greek yogurt
• crab
• lemon
• old bay seasoning
• unflavored gelatin (if using a mold)

Are there any other options to crab or shrimp for this dip?

Yes, this dip can be made with cooked salmon (or your favorite white fish).

Slice a baguette of bread and bake or broil it until golden on both sides. Tip- when crusty bread is hard or stale, run it under water then bake it, it’ll be light and crispy. You’ll have to try this tip it’s amazing!!!

Also a great option if you have frozen bread and it’s dried out and does not have the best texture.

what flavors can be added?

Add lemon, old bay, garlic, and onion. And to spice it up add your favorite hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes when heating the dip.

Over the years of making this dip (it’s been over 35 years, I’ve changed it up a whole bunch of times based on what I had, I’ve molded it in the shape of a fish many times, it’s always a huge hit, I got the original recipe from a friend when she brought it to a party, she made it with canned tiny shrimp) here are some other options I’ve tried.

Options for making this dip:

Use the cream cheese, and you can use sour cream or mayonnaise instead of the Greek yogurt. If you leave out the cream cheese the dip is too soft and funny and won’t hold together,

Can I serve this dip hot or cold?

Yes, It’s delicious either way, I most often make it cold But funny enough I prefer any leftover heated served like a sandwich! if you happen to have leftover dip, heat it up so it looks nice in a dish if the molded dip is half eaten.

I have fun options for 1/2 eaten cake too. Check out my Hot Fudge Sundae Cake

The container I used holds 2 1/2 cups, plenty of dip for more than a baguette of bread. So enjoy!

Spinach and crab dip seems to be a popular request, so yes, chop up 3 cups of fresh spinach and add it to the mixture just before removing it from the stove as soon as the spinach softens, remove the saucepan from the stove, making this into a crabmeat spinach dip- genius! Plate the football dip on spinach leaves for a bed of greenery!

Do you ever have just one piece of fish in the freezer in one of those individual packages, just floating around, well here is the recipe to use it in which makes it the best recipe to make in minutes! Perfect for impromptu stopper buyers, last minute get together, or a fun recipe to make on a hot summer night or cuddle under a blanket with this dip, add some shredded cheese and make it your new favorite snack food!

What makes the crab dip into the football shape?

I used a plastic football shaped container I found at my local grocery store. Another option is the larger Platter football shaped dish I found on Amazon. While I was searching for options I did find these paper football cups that you might find useful for other items you’ll be serving. If the dish you use has an intricate design spray a little nonstick spray for easy removal.

If you make this dip in a mold, you’ll add 2 packages of unflavored gelatin. (you’ll find this in the same place in the store where you find flavored Jello) Knox is a well-known brand, you may be able to find store brands as well. If you would prefer to make this dip without molding it, no need to add the gelatin, just heat and serve.

I found some other cute football shaped dips- check these out

• Football Cheese Ball, from Eating on a Dime
• Chocolate Chip Football Cheese Ball, from Mom Endeavors
• Jalapeno Popper Football Cheese Ball from, Peas and Crayons

This dip is wonderful!

Slather it on crackers or bread, dip veggies into it, serve it hot or cold, and change up the crab for shrimp or fish. And if you plan on serving the dip cold and decide you’d like it hot, just heat it up!

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Crab Dip

this crab dip is versatile, it can be made hot or cold, be turned into a. seafood dip, be made with shrimp or fish and other option given in post

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword appetizer, crab, dip, football, seafood

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 2 cans 12 oz total crab meat, I prefer lump crab in a can use fresh crab, canned or fresh shrimp, lobster, or salmon
• 1 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 6 oz plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 packages plain unflavored gelatin
• 1/2-1 teaspoon old bay seasoning
• optional: hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, additional salt if needed.

Instructions

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, saute onion, add in tomato sauce, cream cheese, and yogurt.
• Once everything has melted together and the cream cheese has no lumps, add lemon juice, old bay or other seasonings. I often add 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, and stir in the crab. bring mixture to a simmer (small bubbles).
• Add the gelatin and bring to a simmer for 1 more minute, stir continually for the gelatin to incorporate fully.
• Pour into serving dish if serving hot.
• Pour the hot dip into a mold (a decorative dish with design or shape) fun options, a football or crab, lobster, or fish. Place wax paper over the dip and place it in the fridge for 6 hours or until completely cold. Then turn out onto a serving plate. Serve with toasted baguette, crackers, or vegetables.

The post Crab Dip, hot or cold first appeared on Created by Diane.

I’m all about quick easy recipes, and this is one that is great straight out of the bowl or on a croissant, crackers, mixed into pasta, served on top of a green salad, you can roll it in rice paper with some veggies like these egg salad spring rolls and enjoy them poolside in the summer,r at the beach, they’re great for snacking, lunch and so much more!

This savory salad is delicious made with imitation crab. Before we move on, let’s talk about what imitation crab is. Basically, it’s fish, sometimes called Krab, this product is made from surimi or minced fish. The fish used is usually pollock, commonly consumed as fish sticks, or fried fish. And though it is a bit saltier than real crab, it’s lower in cholesterol and carbs, for those keeping an eye on their waist and heart.

And if you’ve ever eaten a California roll, you’ve already had it. Don’t miss seeing my  Deconstructed Cali Roll Bowl, it’s super easy to make, and everyone raves over it even the kids!

Continue reading: Seafood Salad

The post Seafood Salad first appeared on Created by Diane.

This dish is so simple to make yet offers an elegant flare – so it’s perfect for entertaining, or it can just as easily be enjoyed alone with your family.

I’m a seafood lover and always looking for more ways to enjoy even the simplest of seafood recipes, this one falls in that category, just wait until you see how easy. And the flavor OMG…. so yummy, 

filled with cheese and great seasonings…

a true winner!

Continue reading: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

The post Crab Stuffed Mushrooms first appeared on Created by Diane.

I am a seafood lover….

I always have been…  I find it hard to resist.

This dish is FULL of flavor and is surprisingly affordable, as I’ve used a package “seafood” commonly known as imitation crab. It’s available in the seafood section of the grocery store.

Now you add this fantastic flavor to mac and cheese and you have a true WINNER!

I like the bow tie pasta with the “crab” flakes they are perfectly portioned and make a fantastic meal.

Perfect anytime!

Imagine a delectable dinner ready in under 30 minutes that will WOW any seafood lover!

Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese with Imitation Crab: A Delicious & Budget-Friendly Recipe

Why Use Imitation Crab in Mac and Cheese?

It’s cost-effective, already cooked, and ready to use in the recipe.

Simple Ingredients for Seafood Mac and Cheese Success

Pasta, butter, flour, milk, garlic, cheese, imitation crab, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs.

Do you see all that crispiness on top of the mac and cheese… oh it’s toasty and delicious!

I topped it with some panko mixed with melted butter and then placed the pot under the broiler for a little crisping.

This is a great vegetarian option for dinner if they are “pescatarian” types, I’m not clear on all of it, but my vegetarian friend said she loved having this the last time she was over.

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Seafood Mac and Cheese

Creamy Seafood Mac and Cheese with Imitation Crab: A Delicious & Budget-Friendly Recipe

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword pasta salad, seafood

Servings 6 servings

Author Diane Schmidt - createdbydiane.com

Cost $9

Ingredients

• 1 lb bow tie pasta this shape works well with the crab flakes as they "stick" to the pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic I use Gourmet Gardens Garlic
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup loosely shaven romano cheese 1/2 oz is my estimation
• 1-16 oz package imitation crab
• Add salt and pepper to taste

Bread Crumb Topping

• 2 tablespoons butter melted
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

• Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
• In a skillet add butter and flour and whisk to combine over a medium heat.
• Slowly pour in milk while whisking until it's all incorporated.
• Add in garlic.
• Add in both kinds of cheese.
• Stir in crab (I break it into pieces before adding it in so it distributes evenly in the pasta and sauce.
• Place butter over breadcrumbs in a bowl then pour over pasta and place under the broiler for a minute or two so they get crisp.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.

I have another recipe that uses imitation crab, it’s a Deconstructed California Roll Bowl. Everyone loves these, even non-sushi eaters since it’s not raw fish, and kids seem to love it too.

If you like this or any other recipe on Created by Diane be sure to share the post with the ones you love. You can click on the “share” buttons on the top and the bottom of each post, you can share it on social media or in an email.

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Thanks ~Diane

The post Seafood Mac and Cheese first appeared on Created by Diane.

I am a HUGE fan of Asian Food,

always have been.

I just love the flavors and when they serve up  Crab Rangoon appetizers.

This dip is easy and you don’t need to spend the time wrapping them in the wonton wrapper.

Just heat up the dip, and make some wonton chips and you’re all set.

You can also serve this over slices of baguette bread or pasta, or tortilla chips. Yes, I enjoyed it on all!

Continue reading: Crab Rangoon Dip

The post Crab Rangoon Dip first appeared on Created by Diane.

This deconstructed version of a California Roll is so fun, easy to make and they get devoured quickly!

This bowl is full of all the delicious flavors of a California Roll, and I made some super fantastic sauce to go on top. The crab used in this recipe is the “imitation crab” use see used in sushi rolls, it’s also popularly known as “seafood”. It’s made from white fish. It’s easy to work with, inexpensive and it’s great to make quick meals with. 

Take a look at this one…

This deconstructed California Roll is so easy and delicious. It’s the easy way to make sushi bowls at home!

Now, no matter how many times my kids ask me to get them California Rolls, I can just whip these up quickly to give them what they want…

and easy homemade version.

No actual rolling involved.

Continue reading: California Roll Bowl

The post California Roll Bowl first appeared on Created by Diane.

The work/school week is about to begin and the stress level seem to RISE!

The stores are crowded, so if  you need anything chances are it’s better to wait until Monday.

Although Monday is not a very popular day…. people even start talking about Friday on Monday…..or is that just me?

This week don’t let everyone else be crabby.

Make this dish and say you’re going to be CRABBY too!

I bet someone will want to grab a fork and join you. Once bite and maybe they’ll like this crabby alternative better.

This is a really quick and easy dish to mix up and have in the fridge all week long, perfect for a quick snack on the run….now that you’ll be heading to the store…It’s way less crowded now that it’s Monday.

Don’t forget a fork!

The addition of lemon and fresh herbs, this pasta salad has a great fresh taste.

Continue reading: Crab Pasta Salad

The post Crab Pasta Salad first appeared on Created by Diane.

Hearing a name sometimes immediately brings an image of someone else you know with that name.

I REALLY remember this when we were trying to pick names for our kids.

There was a bit of back and forth.

No, that names reminds me of a kid who picked on me in school. Yes, I like that name. They were so nice and cute. No I dated someone with that name and they were awful…etc…etc….

My daughter came home and told us that her teachers name is Sebastian, “you know like the crab in Ariel” she says.

I asked her if she said that to him or just thought it.

You guessed it she said it, she also said he had a confused look on his face. Maybe he’s not used to being associated with a CRAB!

Well, she said he did laugh and that he was nice. Hopefully he doesn’t turn crabby half way through the year.

Speaking of CRAB….

I just love crab and if you don’t here is a quick and easy recipe for a 30 minute meal. Perfect for the night you just have no idea what to make.

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Creamy Crab Pasta Sauce

Author Diane Schmidt - createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 6.5 oz can jumbo lump crab meat drained
• 15 oz can tomato puree crushed or tomato sauce (your preference)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion diced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic I used Gourmet Gardens
• 1/4 teaspoon chili pepper Gourmet Gardens
• Salt and pepper to taste
• grated cheese to garnish

Instructions

• Prepare your favorite pasta according to package.
• Heat garlic and onion with olive oil, until onion is translucent.
• Add chili pepper,
• Then add tomatoes (if you like the sauce smooth, puree the tomatoes in a blender or use tomato sauce
• Pour in cream, stir so it doesn't boil to fast or burn.
• Stir in crab.
• Serve over hot pasta.

Notes

Garnished with variegated basil and Romano Cheese.
This beautiful pasta I found at Home Goods.

I just couldn’t resist purchasing this PRETTY pasta when I was at home goods. But who am I kidding I couldn’t resist a lot of things there. I just LOVE their whole kitchen section. Last time I was there I shared a bunch of photos on instagram of what I found. Are you on instagram? I’m @createdbydiane.

I’ve been using Gourmet Garden items for about a year now, and I really LOVE how easy and convenient they are. Gourmet Gardens was a sponsor at CampblogAway and I was able to try some of their other varieties and I enjoyed them all. I love the Cilantro, Garlic and Lemon Grass and as you can see the Chili Pepper is almost gone, time to go get some more!

*I was not compensated for this post. I just LOVE them and wanted to share them with you.

Crab Mac and Cheese

Crab Appetizer

The post Creamy Crab Pasta Sauce first appeared on Created by Diane.

I remember getting Clam Bakes when I was a kid, filled with seafood and all my favorites.

It was layered from bottom to top with

clams, shrimp, lobster, steamers, potatoes, carrots, corn on the cob and they steam it with a can of beer.

Oh it was so DELICIOUS.

When I first had it I recall going and picking it up along the inlet where the boats ride in and out, I always loved going there to watch the boats.

After buying it a couple times, my mom would make it and put the BIG tin pot on the grill and we would enjoy!!!

This is not a clam bake, but since my family really likes clam chowder I figured they may really llike a new mac and cheese with crab in it.

It only takes a few minutes to make the sauce, so if your family likes seafood this may just be a new quick meal for them too.

I added  diced jalapeno and it was a nice touch to the sweet taste of the crab.

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Crab Mac and Cheese

Author Diane Schmidt - createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta cooked
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 12 oz grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 6 oz lump crab (canned or foil package)
• 2 jalapenos roasted seeded and diced
• 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
• black pepper to taste

Instructions

• While your pasta is cooking prepare the sauce.
• In skillet melt butter, then add flour stir until blended.
• Add milk and heat thoroughly then add cheese and whisk well.
• Add to it the crab, jalapeno, celery salt and black pepper.

I can’ t wait to have more of this it really is delicious, my daughter ate it for breakfast she liked it so much!

If you like crab you many enjoy this recipe too

Crab Dip

The post Crab Mac and Cheese first appeared on Created by Diane.

You could adapt this idea to your favorite dip recipe,

This appetizer always gets loads of attention

how it would travel to a party

NO—-I’m just kidding! I share

flavor options for this recipe

You can use canned shrimp in this recipe instead of crab, you can use canned or freshly cooked salmon, tuna from a can as well. 
Add in some fresh dill to kick up the flavor a bit or your favorite herb to go with the item you choose (shrimp, tuna, salmon, or crab) any fish would do as well.

You can also add in some fresh lemon juice about a tablespoon would be plenty.

1. Fried Ravioli with Feta Basil Dip
2. Texas Egg Rolls
3. Prosciutto and Cantaloupe
4. Crab Dip
5. Pizza Dip
6. Avocado Cream Cheese Wontons

Hi!!!
I’m glad you stopped by.
I’m Diane,
let me know if you need help with a recipe.

If this is your first time here, sign up for my emails HERE you’ll also get my free ebook.

I answer the age-old question, ” what should I make” simple, with easy dinner idea, great appetizers, party food, and desserts! Something for everyone. I’ve been blogging for 10 years and have over 1200 recipes posted on my blog here. What would you like to see me make next?

If you have another creamy style dip (artichoke dip comes to mind…) and you’d like to make it into a mold. Just heat the cream portion and add the gelatin, then add the remaining ingredients and put in a prepared mold, refrigerate. Then unmold and serve.

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Crab dip

a delicious and beautiful molded appetizer perfect for any party gathering or spread on bread for a great lunch

Course Appetizer, Seafood

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 12 + servings

Author Diane Schmidt - createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1 can tomato soup
• 1 package cream cheese regular or fat-free
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt regular or low fat or fat-free (or you can use mayonnaise if preferred)
• 1 onion diced I prefer red, but use white if that's all I have
• 2 packages plain gelatin
• 10-12 oz canned lump crabmeat drained
• wax paper to cover molds

Instructions

• *Have all items ready before beginning-the gelatin sets quickly
• if you forget to chop the onion and try to do it later (believe me!)
• In a medium saucepan, you will be constantly stirring with a whisk or wooden spoon.
• Heat the tomato soup (do not add water)
• add gelatin and makes sure there are no lumps
• bring to a boil
• add cream cheese, yogurt, and onion
• once everything is heated,
• remove from heat and stir in crab.
• Place mixture in the mold sprayed with an oil spray for easy release.
• Place wax paper to cover dip.
• Refrigerate 6-8 hours or overnight.

The post Crab dip and How to make dip more appetizing! first appeared on Created by Diane.