Hot Crab Dip is a rich, creamy, and indulgent appetizer that has become a favorite at gatherings, parties, and festive celebrations. Made with tender crab meat blended into a smooth, cheesy base, this dip is baked until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. The combination of sweet crab, savory seasonings, and melted cheese creates a warm, comforting dish that feels luxurious yet familiar.
Whether served during holidays, game nights, or casual get-togethers, hot crab dip has a way of drawing people together around the table and disappearing quickly once it is served.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Hot Crab Dip recipe because it perfectly captures everything I enjoy about comfort-style appetizers—rich flavor, creamy texture, and effortless elegance.
The combination of smooth, melted cheeses with sweet, tender crab meat creates a depth of flavor that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
Hot Crab Dip is a must-try dish because it delivers a perfect balance of luxury and comfort in a form that everyone loves. The natural sweetness of crab paired with rich, creamy cheese creates a flavor combination that feels both refined and familiar.
It’s an excellent introduction to seafood for those who may be hesitant, as the flavors are smooth, approachable, and well-balanced.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 260 calories per serving
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American, Coastal
Ingredients
- 225 g lump crab meat, drained and picked over
- 225 g cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- Extra shredded cheese
- Chopped parsley
Cooking Directions
The crab dip is mixed into a creamy base, transferred to a baking dish, and baked until hot and bubbling with a lightly golden top.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Preheat the oven to 190°C and lightly grease a small baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheese, parmesan, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, green onions, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve
Serve Hot Crab Dip warm with toasted bread, crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced baguette. It also pairs well with fresh vegetables such as celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. Garnish with parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
Recipe Tips
- Use high-quality lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Drain the crab well to avoid a watery dip.
- Soften the cream cheese fully for a smoother mixture.
- Do not overbake, as this can dry out the dip.
Variations
Spicy Hot Crab Dip
Add chopped jalapeños, red chili flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Three-Cheese Crab Dip
Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese for extra richness.
Garlic Butter Crab Dip
Add melted butter and extra garlic for a deeper savory flavor.
Herb-Infused Crab Dip
Mix in fresh dill, chives, or parsley for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Seafood Combo Dip
Add small amounts of cooked shrimp or lobster for a mixed seafood dip.
Freezing and Storage
Store leftover crab dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be frozen before baking for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. Freezing after baking is not recommended, as the texture may change.
Special Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
Conclusion
Hot Crab Dip is a timeless appetizer that combines rich, creamy texture with the delicate sweetness of crab. Easy to prepare and endlessly crowd-pleasing, it is perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to something special. Once you serve this warm, bubbly dip, it is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Hot Crab Dip
Hot Crab Dip is a rich, creamy, and indulgent appetizer that has become a favorite at gatherings, parties, and festive celebrations. Made with tender crab meat blended into a smooth, cheesy base, this dip is baked until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Ingredients
Optional Topping
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 190°C and lightly grease a small baking dish.
-
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
-
Stir in shredded cheese, parmesan, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, green onions, salt, and pepper.
-
Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
-
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
-
Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
-
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly and lightly golden on top.
-
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
