This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is the ultimate creamy, cheesy seafood appetizer that will steal the show at your next gathering. Packed with lump crab meat, a rich blend of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream, and flavored with Old Bay seasoning and a touch of lemon, this dip is bursting with flavor. It’s baked until golden and bubbly, making it perfect for dipping with crackers, pita chips, or fresh bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crab Dip is a crowd-pleaser that brings all the comforting flavors of a classic seafood dish, with a cheesy twist. The creamy, velvety texture combined with the sweetness of the crab meat and the warmth of the Old Bay seasoning creates an irresistible dip. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual gathering, or just craving a flavorful seafood snack, this dip is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, and the best part is it can be prepped ahead of time and baked just before serving!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve with crackers, pita chips, or fresh bread.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dip to give it a spicy kick.
- Add More Cheese: For an extra cheesy dip, you can mix in a combination of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese along with the cheddar.
- Crab Alternatives: If you don’t have access to lump crab meat, you can use imitation crab meat or shrimp for a different seafood flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks like carrots or celery for a gluten-free option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the dip in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned crab meat for this dip?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat, but be sure to drain it well. Fresh or frozen crab meat will give the dip a better texture and flavor, but canned is a good option for a quick fix.
2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving.
3. How do I know when the dip is done?
The dip is done when it’s bubbly, and the top is golden brown. You can also check by inserting a spoon to see if the dip is hot throughout.
4. Can I use a different cheese in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to swap the cheddar for your favorite cheese, like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I use a different seasoning than Old Bay?
If you don’t have Old Bay seasoning, you can use a combination of paprika, celery salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to mimic the flavors.
6. Can I make this dip spicier?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dip to add more spice to the flavor.
7. How do I prevent the crab from being too fishy?
To avoid a strong fishy taste, make sure the crab meat is well-drained and not overly fishy to begin with. Fresh crab will typically taste milder.
8. Can I freeze this crab dip?
You can freeze the dip before baking it. Cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
9. How can I make this dip creamier?
If you want a creamier dip, add a little more sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture for a thicker, richer texture.
10. Can I serve this dip in a bread bowl?
Yes! For an added presentation, serve this dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl. Just make sure the bread doesn’t get soggy from the creamy dip.
Conclusion
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is a rich, creamy, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with crab meat, topped with melted cheese, and finished with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning, this dip is bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it at a party, a game day gathering, or just enjoying it with friends, this dip is sure to be a favorite everyone will love!
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Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is the ultimate creamy, cheesy seafood appetizer packed with lump crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this indulgent dip is perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering. Serve with crackers, pita chips, or fresh bread for an irresistible treat!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it apart too much.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve with crackers, pita chips, or fresh bread.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dip for an added spicy kick.
- Cheese Variety: Try mixing mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Crab Alternatives: Use imitation crab meat or shrimp as an alternative to lump crab for a different seafood flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Party Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
