Hot Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering. Made with tender crab meat, cream cheese, and a blend of seasonings, this dip is baked until bubbly and golden. Serve it with crackers, bread, or veggies for a crowd-pleasing dish that disappears fast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy – A perfect combination of cheese and crab.
- Easy to Make – Just mix, bake, and serve!
- Great for Parties – Always a hit at gatherings and holidays.
- Customizable – Add extra spices, cheese, or even a little heat.
- Perfect with Any Dippers – Serve with crackers, bread, or veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- Lemon juice
- Hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Old Bay, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if using).
- Fold in Crab Meat – Gently mix in the lump crab meat to keep it from breaking apart.
- Transfer to Baking Dish – Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake – Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with green onions or parsley and serve warm with crackers, bread, or veggies.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 6-8 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add extra hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
- Cheese Lovers’ Version – Mix in mozzarella or Gruyère for extra cheesiness.
- Garlic Butter Flavor – Stir in roasted garlic or a little melted butter.
- Lighter Option – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
- Cold Crab Dip – Skip the baking and serve chilled for a refreshing dip.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy-based dips can separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab?
Yes! While fresh lump crab is best, imitation crab works as a budget-friendly alternative.
What are the best dippers for crab dip?
Crackers, toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like celery and bell peppers.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dip, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready to serve.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Use full-fat cream cheese and add an extra tablespoon of sour cream or mayonnaise.
Can I add shrimp to this dip?
Yes! Adding cooked, chopped shrimp makes a delicious seafood dip.
What’s the best way to keep it warm for a party?
Use a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep the dip hot and creamy.
Can I serve this dip cold?
Yes! If serving cold, chill for at least an hour before serving.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, mayo, and shredded cheese alternatives.
What can I use instead of Old Bay seasoning?
Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper works well.
How do I know when the dip is done baking?
The dip should be bubbly around the edges and golden on top.
Conclusion
Hot Crab Dip is the ultimate creamy, cheesy appetizer that’s easy to make and always a crowd favorite. Whether you serve it for game day, a holiday party, or a casual gathering, this dip is guaranteed to impress. Try different variations and pair it with your favorite dippers for the perfect bite!
Hot Crab Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy, cheesy hot crab dip is packed with lump crab meat, spices, and melted cheese, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz lump crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and honey.
- Coat the chicken: Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes for extra flavor.
- Bake: Arrange the chicken in the baking dish, skin-side up. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Broil (optional): For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Rest & serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with roasted veggies or rice!
Notes
- Use lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Serve with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or pita bread.
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