Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Absolutely! For the smokiest flavor, use hot-smoked tuna fillets—just flake them with a fork like you would canned tuna. If using raw tuna, grill or pan-sear it first (a little char adds amazing depth), then let it cool before mixing into the dip.

How long does smoked tuna dip last in the fridge?

This Gulf Coast favorite stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container—if it lasts that long! The flavors actually improve after 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before serving to bring back that creamy texture.

Can I freeze this creamy fish spread?

Freezing can alter the texture slightly (sour cream may separate when thawed), but it’s doable in a pinch! Stir vigorously after thawing overnight in the fridge. For best results, freeze before adding chives—they get weepy.

What’s the best cracker pairing?

Buttery club crackers are my ride-or-die, but toasted baguette slices or sturdy veggie sticks (like jicama or endive) work great too. Avoid super-salty chips—they overpower the dip’s subtle smokiness.

Creamy 10-Minute Smoked Tuna Dip Recipe That

Smoked Tuna Dip

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A creamy, smoky spread perfect for crackers, inspired by Gulf Coast beach-shack appetizers. Easy to make ahead and adjust spice levels.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 2 cups 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp liquid smoke
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
Add drained tuna, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Fold in chopped chives if using.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
Serve chilled with crackers or toasted bread.

Notes

For a chunkier texture, flake the tuna less.
Adjust cayenne for more or less heat.
Use hot-smoked tuna fillets instead of canned for a deeper smoky flavor.
Find more recipes like this on our Pinterest page.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tbsp
Calories: 80
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/smoked-tuna-dip-recipe-creamy-easy/