Joe’s Crab Shack crab dip is a creamy, cheesy, and savory appetizer that’s loaded with lump crab meat and a blend of irresistible flavors. Perfect for sharing, this crowd-pleasing dip pairs wonderfully with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables. It’s a fantastic choice for game days, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-quality: Recreates the rich and indulgent dip served at Joe’s Crab Shack.
- Easy to make: Simple steps with no complicated techniques.
- Perfect for sharing: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or family get-togethers.
- Versatile: Serve with crackers, bread, tortilla chips, or veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Lemon juice
- Garlic (minced)
- Old Bay seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Add flavorings: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the crab: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the pieces too much.
- Assemble the dip: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or skillet and spread evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve warm with your favorite dippers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 6-8 servings
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Cheese swap: Use Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor.
- Herbaceous: Add fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a fresh twist.
- Seafood blend: Combine crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for an extra indulgent dip.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions.
- Freezing: This dip is best served fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use imitation crab?
Yes, imitation crab can be used as a budget-friendly substitute, though fresh lump crab meat offers the best flavor.
2. What should I serve with this crab dip?
Crackers, toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like celery and carrot sticks are all great options.
3. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
4. How do I keep the dip warm at a party?
Use a small crock pot or chafing dish to keep the dip warm and gooey.
5. Can I make this dip dairy-free?
Substitute dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version.
6. Can I add more seafood to the dip?
Absolutely, shrimp or lobster can be added for a seafood medley.
7. What’s the best way to ensure the crab flavor stands out?
Use high-quality lump crab meat and avoid overpowering it with too many seasonings.
8. Can I bake this in individual ramekins?
Yes, divide the mixture into ramekins for single-serve portions and adjust the baking time slightly.
9. Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, canned crab meat works well; just ensure it’s drained and patted dry before using.
10. Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Serve it with gluten-free dippers to accommodate dietary needs.
Conclusion
Joe’s Crab Shack crab dip is the ultimate appetizer for any occasion. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with crab, this dip is a showstopper that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whip it up for your next party or gathering, and watch it disappear in no time!
Print
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–14 minutes
- Total Time: 20–24 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2–3 as an appetizer 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This warm, creamy crab dip is a beloved appetizer from Joe’s Crab Shack. It combines tender crab meat with cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of seasonings, all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this dip is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika
- 4 teaspoons finely chopped yellow onion
- 4 teaspoons finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 ounces lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 tablespoon sliced green onion (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and butter. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the seasoned salt and paprika until evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Vegetables and Cheese: Add the finely chopped yellow onion, green bell pepper, and shredded mozzarella cheese to the mixture. Stir until combined.
- Fold in Crab Meat: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the pieces too much.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased, shallow baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sliced green onion and chopped parsley. Serve hot with unsalted or lightly salted corn chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dip mixture in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
- Variations: For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through before serving.