Phyllis Mccole’S Crab Mold

📜 Collection: Gail Collection | ✍️ Attribution: Phyllis McCole | 📂 Category: Appetizers A classic, savory molded crab dip from a 1986 recipe. This elegant appetizer combines tender crab meat, rich cream cheese, and crisp vegetables in a smooth gelatin base, perfect for holiday gatherings.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
20 mins5 mins2 hours (Chilling)12–16 Servings

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Decorative mold (approx. 4-5 cup capacity)
  • Rubber spatula

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
1 (6-8 oz) canCrab Meatdrained and flaked
8 OuncesCream Cheesesoftened
1 CupMayonnaiseroom temperature
1 (10.5 oz) canCream of Mushroom Soupundiluted
2 PackagesKnox Gelatinunflavored
2 TablespoonsCold Waterfor blooming gelatin
1 CupCeleryfinely chopped
½ CupOnionfinely chopped
As neededCooking Spraynon-stick, for the mold

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  1. In a large bowl, combine the softened 8 ounces cream cheese and 1 cup mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly until completely smooth and free of lumps.
  2. Stir in the 1 cup finely chopped celery, ½ cup finely chopped onion, and the 1 (6-8 oz) can drained, flaked crab meat until evenly distributed. Set aside.

Step 2: Dissolve the Gelatin

  1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the 2 packages Knox gelatin over the 2 tablespoons cold water. Let it stand for 1 to 2 minutes to soften and bloom.
  2. In a small saucepan, gently heat the 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup over low heat until warm and steaming, but do not let it boil.
  3. Add the softened gelatin mixture to the warm soup and stir constantly until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is silky smooth.
  4. Remove the soup from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Combine, Mold, and Chill

  1. Pour the cooled soup mixture into the large bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Stir until everything is thoroughly blended and uniform in color.
  2. Lightly coat a decorative mold with non-stick cooking spray.
  3. Pour the final mixture into the prepared mold and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set, firm, and slightly springy to the touch.
  4. To serve, carefully run a thin knife around the edges, unmold onto a serving platter, and accompany with crackers.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: This mold can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Keep refrigerated in the mold until just before serving to maintain its shape.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card