Crab dip is a classic appetizer that deserves an amazing pairing to bring out its full flavor potential. The rich, creamy dip combines lump crab meat with spices, cheese, and sour cream or mayonnaise for an indulgent treat But half the fun is finding the perfect vehicle to transport each bite from bowl to mouth
With so many options for dippers and pairings, it can be hard to decide what to serve alongside crab dip. Through extensive research of recipes and recommendations from seasoned crab dip aficionados, I’ve compiled the ultimate guide to the best things to eat with crab dip.
From crispy crackers and chips to hearty breads and fresh vegetables, there is a perfect pairing for every crab dip occasion Here are 23 of the most popular and delicious options for what to eat with creamy, dreamy crab dip
Crispy Crackers and Chips
For scooping that is sturdy yet satisfying, turn to crackers and chips that can handle the chunky dip without crumbling to bits. Some top choices include:
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Ritz Crackers: A trusted classic, Ritz crackers have the ideal butteriness and mild flavor to let the crab shine. Their round shape makes a built-in crab dip holder.
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Pita Chips: Whether homemade or store-bought, pita chips are perfectly crunchy and sturdy for scooping generous crab dip portions.
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Tortilla Chips: No need to overcomplicate things — salty, crispy tortilla chips are an addicting match for indulgent crab dip.
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Potato Chips: Go for thicker chips that can stand up to the chunky dip. Potatoes provide a subtle sweetness.
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Pretzels: From sticks to twists, the satisfying crunch and hit of salt from pretzels balances creamy crab dip wonderfully.
Breads and Baked Goods
When you need more substance than a mere cracker can provide, turn to breads and baked treats. Tear off a chunk of warm goodness and dunk it into crabby creaminess.
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Rolls or Biscuits: Fluffy, soft rolls are perfect for tearing into crab-loaded pieces.
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Pita Wedges: Crisp pita toasts up nicely and the pocket is great for filling.
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Sourdough Bread: Get your crab dip fix with chewy, tangy sourdough pieces.
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Baguette: Load up crunchy, toasted baguette rounds with rich dip.
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Soft Pretzels: Tear off chewy, salty pretzel bites for a twist on crab dipping.
Fresh Vegetables
For a lighter, fresher take on crab dip scooping, turn to a variety of crisp, cool vegetables. Crunch your way through this appetizer with:
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Carrots: Sweet carrot sticks are made for scooping briny crab.
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Celery: A crunchy classic pairing. Celery refreshes the palate between dip bites.
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Bell Peppers: Use slices or veggie scoops with the fresh sweetness of peppers.
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Cucumbers: Cool, crisp cukes provide the perfect crunchy balance.
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Radishes: An underrated choice! Radishes have a peppery kick.
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Jicama: Super crisp and juicy, jicama slices scoop dip like a pro.
Creative Pairings
Once you’ve covered the basics, have fun with unique crab dip vehicles like:
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Wonton skins: Get crisp, baked wonton scoops tailor-made for creamy dips.
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Soft pretzels: Tear off chewy pretzel bite-sizes and dunk away.
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Naan bread: Swipe warm, tender naan through cool crab dip for an Indian twist.
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Cornbread: Crumbling moist cornbread over crab dip is an amazing contrast.
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Popovers: Hollow these eggy baked treats and fill with dip for a fun app.
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Buttery toast points: DIY crab toast with baguette slices swiped through the mix.
The key is finding a vehicle you love scooping with. Mix up textures and flavors to keep crab dip interesting. Get creative and the possibilities are endless!
Frequency of Recommended Pairings
Based on research of top recommendations from food sites and crab dip lovers, here are the most frequently suggested pairings and how often they were mentioned:
- Tortilla chips – 10 mentions
- Ritz crackers – 7 mentions
- Potato chips – 5 mentions
- Pita bread/chips – 4 mentions
- Breadsticks – 3 mentions
- Wheat Thins – 3 mentions
- Pretzels – 3 mentions
- Carrots – 3 mentions
- Celery – 2 mentions
- Bell peppers – 2 mentions
- Rye bread – 1 mention
- Sourdough bread – 1 mention
- Naan bread – 1 mention
- Fritos – 1 mention
- English muffins – 1 mention
As you can see, traditional crackers and chips are clear favorites when people are deciding what to eat with crab dip. But don’t be afraid to also try out creative pairings like naan or cornbread for unique flavor and textural combinations.
Tips for Crab Dip Pairing Success
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Play with textures. Crab dip demands crunch and crumble. Vary your crispy, crunchy dippers.
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Go beyond crackers. Breads, veggie slices, and more allow for fun pairings.
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Toast is your friend. Toasted pita, baguette, and other breads add crunch.
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Slice it up. Cut vegetables and breads into crab bite-sized portions.
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Dip and swipe. Swiping softer breads through crab dip is delicious.
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Flavor balance. Acidic, spicy, or herby options balance rich crab.
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Chill it out. Cool, fresh veggies provide contrast to hot crab dips.
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Get creative! Don’t just default to crackers. Surprise your guests.
Putting It All Together
Crab dip demands a satisfying crunch or crumble to transport it from bowl to hungry mouths. Crispy crackers and chips tend to be classic go-tos, but hearty breads and fresh vegetables deserve a place at the crab dip party as well.
Toast up some crunchy baguette slices, crisp up some wonton skins, and slice up some crisp bell peppers. Go beyond crackers and get creative with your crab dip pairings.
With so many possibilities, there are no wrong answers when deciding what to eat delicious crab dip with! Crunch, crumble, and dip your way through this appetizer while delighting guests with fun, unique pairings.
What You’ll Need To Make Hot Crab Rangoon Dip
If possible, I recommend using fresh-off-the-boat crab meat. It comes in a clear plastic container and is usually resting on ice in the seafood department. It’s not always available depending on the season and region, so your second-best option is refrigerated crab meat, such as Phillip’s, which is readily available year-round. Just avoid shelf-stable canned crab meat; it contains additives that affect the taste and texture of the meat.
Fresh crab meat has tiny pieces of shell in it, so it’s important to pick them out. There’s also a lot of excess liquid in crab meat, so you have to drain it or your dip will be watery. The best way to gather the crab meat into your hands and squeeze out any excess liquid over the sink.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Crab Rangoon Dip
Begin by warming the cream cheese in the microwave to make it easy to whisk, otherwise it will be lumpy and hard to incorporate with the other ingredients. Whisk until smooth, then add the mayonnaise, sour cream, Sriracha, lime juice, garlic, salt, and sugar.
Add the crab meat, light green scallions, and 3/4 cup of the cheese.
Using a rubber spatula, fold to combine, being careful not to break up the lumps of crab too much.
Transfer the dip to a 1-qt baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheese over top.
Bake until the cheese is melted and the dip is bubbling. (You don’t want it too golden.)
Top with the Thai sweet chili sauce.
Sprinkle the dark green scallions and cilantro (if using) over top.
MeMe’s Recipes | Crab Dip
FAQ
What is crab dip served with?
Crab dip may be served with crackers, flatbread, pita bread, bread, crostino, pretzels and sliced vegetables, among other accompaniments.
What chips to eat crab dip with?
- Tortilla Chips.
- Multigrain Chips.
- Pita Chips.
- Potato Chips.
- Ritz Crackers or Other Buttery Crackers.
- Pretzels.
- Wheat Thins.
- Triscuit Crackers.
What sides go with crab dip?
Sometimes served on soft pretzels and sometimes baked in a skillet, but always a must-have order. We eat it on chicken (usually called “Chicken Chesapeake”) or in quesadillas, but the best way to serve hot cheesy crab dip is with fresh bread, pita wedges, celery, and/or sturdy crackers.
What to eat cajun crab dip with?
Remove from the pit and season the top lightly with King Craw Cajun Seasoning and thinly sliced green onion. Serve with crackers or pita chips for dipping.Nov 29, 2023
What goes well with crab dip?
Crab dip is a delicious and creamy appetizer that can be enjoyed with a variety of different crunchy vegetables or sturdy crackers. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or something more decadent, we’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out our list of 20 delicious pairings that will take your crab dip to the next level!
How do you eat crab dip?
Biscuits or Dinner Rolls: Fluffy, soft biscuits are wonderful for tearing off pieces and dunking into the creamy dip. Pita Wedges: Toast the pita first for extra crunch. The pocket is perfect for filling with dip. Sourdough Bread: The tangy, chewy crumb soaks up crab dip beautifully. Just tear off a chunk and dip away.
Are crackers good for crab dip?
Crackers serve as a classic and versatile accompaniment to crab dip, offering a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the dip’s creamy texture. With numerous flavor variations like whole grain, sesame, and garlic, crackers can enhance the overall taste experience.
What kind of chips go with crab dip?
Their sturdy baked crunch provides a blank canvas for crab dip. Tortilla Chips: A no-brainer pairing. The salty corn flavor and crispy texture of tortilla chips makes an addicting match with creamy crab dip. Potato Chips: Go for thick-cut chips that can support the chunky dip. The potatoes’ subtle sweetness balances the rich seafood flavors.
Does garlic bread go with crab dip?
Garlic bread guarantees a delicious and complementary side to crab dip, enhancing the overall flavor experience with its buttery, garlicky goodness. Toasting techniques can vary, from lightly crisp to a golden brown crunch. Flavor variations abound, with options like adding herbs, cheese, or even a touch of spice.
Can you eat crab dip a day ahead?
Crab dip can be served cold. In fact, you can make your crab dip a day ahead and serve it cold. Only set it out for 1 to 2 hours. No, rising crab meat can remove too much of the flavor. I will often drain some of the juices and reserve for later, if needed. No. Crab dip should never be left out over night.