Hot crab dip is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, and savory appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. Packed with tender lump crab meat, rich cream cheese, and flavorful seasonings, this crowd-pleaser is quick to make and guaranteed to disappear in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A warm, decadent dip that’s perfect for entertaining.
- Loaded with real crab meat for a luxurious flavor.
- Easy to prepare with simple pantry and fridge ingredients.
- Versatile—serve it with bread, crackers, or veggies.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute hosting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Old Bay seasoning
- Lemon juice
- Hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
- Mix the Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, and Old Bay).
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add Crab Meat:
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it apart too much.
- Assemble the Dip:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over it.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot with crackers, bread, or vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 6-8 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes.
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes.
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes.
Variations
- Spicy Crab Dip: Add diced jalapeños, extra hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Cheddar Crab Dip: Substitute mozzarella with sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Seafood Mix Dip: Combine crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a seafood medley.
- Cold Crab Dip: Skip the baking step and chill the mixture instead for a cold version of this dip.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds.
- Freezing: The dip can be frozen before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, canned crab meat works well. Drain it thoroughly and pick through it for shells.
How do I make the dip less rich?
Reduce the amount of cream cheese and sour cream slightly, or add more lemon juice for a tangy balance.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
What should I serve with crab dip?
Serve with crackers, baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh veggies like celery and bell pepper strips.
Can I use imitation crab meat?
Yes, imitation crab is a budget-friendly option, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?
Old Bay adds classic seafood flavor but can be substituted with a mix of paprika, celery salt, and cayenne.
How can I make this dip lighter?
Use low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Can I cook this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
What type of crab meat is best?
Lump crab meat is ideal for its tender texture and mild flavor. Claw meat is a more affordable alternative.
How do I know when the dip is done?
The dip is ready when it’s hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Conclusion
Hot crab dip is the perfect appetizer for any occasion, combining creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to something special, this easy recipe is sure to impress. Serve it warm and watch it disappear in no time!
Print
Hot Crab Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A luscious and flavorful dip featuring lump crab meat mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of seasonings, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated white onion
- 12 ounces lump crab meat
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- A few dashes of hot sauce (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add Seasonings: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated onion, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, chopped parsley, hot sauce (if using), and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in Crab: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the pieces too much.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Crab Meat: Fresh lump crab meat is preferred for its flavor and texture. If using canned crab meat, ensure it’s well-drained and picked over for any shell fragments.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until heated through.