Imitation Crab Hot Dip

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

16 oz imitation crab*, broken up

Use the paddle attachment of the Kitchenaid mixer to break up the crab. Pour into 11x7 baking dish to reserve.

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup mayonnaise

Mix well in Kitchenaid mixer with paddle attachment, scraping down as needed.

1 cup grated monterey jack cheese (or mozzarella) + 1/2 cup more reserved

1/2 cup sliced green onion (or 2 Tablespoons grated onion)

2 cloves minced garlic (or pressed, or grated)

1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 teaspoons hot sauce (Siracha)

1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning (or 1/4 t celery salt and 1/4 t paprika)

Add to cream cheese mixture and mix well, scraping down as needed.

Add the crab and mix on low until combined.

Butter the baking dish, pour in the crab mixture. Sprinkle on the reserved cheese. Bake, uncovered at 400 degrees F for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Serve with favorite crackers.

Imitation Crab Hot Dip based on this recipe. 

*You can use real lump crab meat, preferable fresh from cooked king crab legs, patted dry with paper towels.