Description
This irresistible baked lobster dip combines creamy cheese, succulent lobster meat, and a golden, crunchy Panko topping to create the ultimate gourmet comfort food appetizer. Perfectly seasoned with Old Bay® and fresh herbs, this warm dip is ideal for entertaining or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (Use high-quality oil for a rich flavor.)
- 2 medium shallots (They add a subtle sweetness; onions can be a good substitute.)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (Provides a luscious, creamy base—opt for low-fat if preferred.)
- 1 cup sour cream (Adds tanginess and a silky texture.)
- 8 ounces shredded sharp white Cheddar cheese (The star ingredient; sharpness enhances the lobster’s flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (Brightens the dish with a refreshing zing.)
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay® seasoning (A must-have for that classic seafood taste; can be replaced with Cajun seasoning.)
- 2 tablespoons diced chives (Offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.)
- 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley (Freshens up the dip; feel free to use cilantro for a twist.)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Adjust to taste, but be mindful with other salty ingredients.)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (Adds a nice seasoning kick.)
- 8 ounces cooked knuckle and claw lobster meat (Ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor.)
Topping Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Helps brown the Panko nicely and enrich the taste.)
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (Creates a delightful crunchy topping; can substitute with regular breadcrumbs.)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Adds a warm, aromatic kick—fresh garlic can also work well!)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) to ensure it’s heated and ready for baking your lobster dip.
- Sauté shallots: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender and slightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the dip base: In a bowl or using a stand mixer, combine the sautéed shallots, cream cheese, sour cream, shredded sharp white Cheddar cheese, Old Bay® seasoning, diced chives, and chopped parsley. Mix on low speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add lobster meat: Gently fold in the chopped cooked lobster meat using a wooden spoon, reserving a few chunks of lobster for garnish.
- Toast Panko topping: In another medium non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the remaining olive oil and unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the Panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the dip: Spoon the lobster mixture evenly into a 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the golden toasted Panko breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake the dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the dip is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the reserved lobster pieces on top. Serve warm alongside crostini, crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh or high-quality cooked lobster meat for the best flavor and texture.
- To make the dip lighter, substitute full-fat cream cheese with a low-fat version.
- Old Bay® seasoning can be replaced with Cajun seasoning for a spicier flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, replace Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep the dip mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator; add the Panko topping just before baking.
- If fresh parsley is unavailable, cilantro makes a nice alternative for a different herbal note.
