Try this cheesy crowd-pleaser in Alpharetta

You might associate blue crabs with Maryland, but they are plentiful along the Gulf of Mexico, which is the focus of Lapeer Steak & Seafood’s coastal cuisine. And blue crabs are the star of Culinary Director Blake Hartley’s classic crab dip.

Served in a hot cast iron skillet, the dip has both down-home comfort and decadence, with smoky, salty and creamy richness. Softened sweet onions, fresh Georgia corn kernels and matchstick pieces of lardon are folded into a cheese mixture that includes nutty fontina, rich gruyere, aged cheddar and cream cheese. Slivers of scallions add texture.

Fresh blue crabs are cooked, cooled and picked. A generous amount of tender and sweet lump meat is incorporated, with house seasoning. Atop the mixture is a shredded cheese mixture and breadcrumbs that form a toasty and golden crust once broiled to bubbling.