Indulge in the briny goodness of crab paired with the creamy allure of cheese in this delectable Cracked Crab Cheese Bread. Perfect for a special appetizer, brunch, or as a savory snack, this dish combines tender chunks of crab with a medley of cheeses and spices, all baked to golden perfection. Get ready to savor the flavors of the sea in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or seafood seasoning of your choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 French baguette or artisan bread loaf
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Crab Delight: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss to mix.
3. Creamy Bliss: In another bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped green onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
4. Creamy Bind: Add the creamy mixture to the crab and cheese mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until well combined.
5. Bread Bliss: Slice the French baguette or artisan bread loaf in half lengthwise. Hollow out some of the bread from the inside to create a shallow well.
6. Filling the Bread: Spoon the crab and cheese mixture generously into the well you created in the bread.
7. Baking Brilliance: Place the filled bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the Cracked Crab Cheese Bread from the oven and garnish it with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
9. Slicing and Savoring: Slice the baked bread into individual portions and serve it while it’s still warm. Each slice is a delightful combination of creamy cheese and succulent crab.
A seafood lover’s dream, Cracked Crab Cheese Bread combines the richness of crab with the creamy allure of cheese and a hint of spice. This dish is sure to impress with its sea flavors, whether served as an appetizer, brunch centerpiece, or savory snack. Savor the warmth and deliciousness of homemade comfort food with family and friends.