If you’re looking for the ultimate party appetizer—one that’s creamy, savory, a little spicy, and perfect for spreading on crackers—this Devil Crab Cream Cheese Ball is it. It’s an old-school favorite that never fails to make an appearance at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or family game nights.
This recipe combines imitation crab meat with a rich cream cheese base, sharp cheddar, fresh veggies, lemon juice, and bold seasonings for a flavor-packed bite. The Cajun seasoning brings a gentle heat, the Worcestershire adds depth, and the lemon juice brightens everything up. Served chilled and shaped into a perfect sphere, it makes an impressive centerpiece for any snack table.
Growing up, my mother had a signature appetizer she made for every party, and this was it. She’d set it out on a platter surrounded by buttery crackers and fresh veggie sticks, and before the guests had even taken off their coats, the first layer would be gone. That’s the magic of a good cheese ball—it’s irresistible, easy to make ahead, and flexible enough to suit any crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Devil Crab Cream Cheese Ball
- Perfect party food – Serves 8–10 and pairs with almost any cracker or dipper.
- Make-ahead convenience – Preps in 10 minutes and chills until ready.
- Flavor explosion – Creamy, tangy, slightly spicy, and savory all in one bite.
- Budget-friendly – Uses imitation crab for great flavor at a fraction of the cost.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level or swap in different cheeses.
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
- 8 oz imitation crabmeat flakes
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup finely diced white onion
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Cocktail sauce, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine imitation crab, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced onion, chopped celery, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the texture is smooth but still slightly chunky.
2. Shape the Cheese Ball:
Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean plate or cutting board. Scoop the mixture into the center, then use the wrap to help shape it into a round ball. Twist the plastic wrap at the top to seal.
3. Chill Until Firm:
Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 1–2 hours. This helps it firm up and allows the flavors to meld together. For best results, chill overnight.
4. Serve:
Unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving platter. Surround it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggie sticks.
5. Optional Topping:
For an extra flavor boost, pour cocktail sauce over the top before serving. The tangy tomato-based sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy crab filling.
Tips & Variations
- Make it extra spicy – Add a dash of hot sauce or increase the Cajun seasoning.
- Go gourmet – Swap imitation crab for real lump crab meat if you want to splurge.
- Change the cheese – Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a smoked cheese can add a new flavor twist.
- Add crunch – Roll the chilled cheese ball in chopped nuts or crushed crackers before serving.
- Individual servings – Form smaller cheese balls for single-serve appetizers at large gatherings.
- Fresh herb boost – Swap dried parsley for fresh dill or chives for a brighter taste.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Keep it wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended because cream cheese can become grainy after thawing.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese?
Leave it at room temperature for 30–45 minutes, or microwave in 10-second intervals until soft but not melted.
What crackers work best?
Buttery crackers, multigrain crisps, or even toasted baguette slices all pair wonderfully.
Can I serve it warm?
Cheese balls are traditionally served chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to make it easier to spread.
Final Thoughts
The Devil Crab Cream Cheese Ball is more than just a snack—it’s a conversation starter. Its creamy texture, savory seafood flavor, and hint of spice make it the kind of appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “Who made this?” It’s ideal for holidays, game nights, bridal showers, and any event where you want to impress with minimal effort.
By making it ahead of time, you free yourself from last-minute kitchen stress and can focus on enjoying the party. Serve it with your favorite crackers, crusty bread, or even cucumber slices for a lighter option. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this cheese ball will always deliver that perfect bite of creamy, flavorful indulgence.
Devil Crab Cream Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 8 oz imitation crabmeat flakes
- 2 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup finely diced white onion
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Cocktail sauce, for serving
Instructions
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine imitation crab, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced onion, chopped celery, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the texture is smooth but still slightly chunky.
Shape the Cheese Ball:
- Place a large sheet of plastic wrap on a clean plate or cutting board. Scoop the mixture into the center, then use the wrap to help shape it into a round ball. Twist the plastic wrap at the top to seal.
Chill Until Firm:
- Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 1–2 hours. This helps it firm up and allows the flavors to meld together. For best results, chill overnight.
Serve:
- Unwrap the cheese ball and place it on a serving platter. Surround it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggie sticks.
Optional Topping:
- For an extra flavor boost, pour cocktail sauce over the top before serving. The tangy tomato-based sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy crab filling.
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