Introduction
There’s nothing quite like dipping into a bubbling-hot, cheesy crab dip that’s rich with flavor and packed with tender crab meat. Whether you’re throwing a party, watching the big game, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this Creamy Cheesy Crab Dip is always a hit. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and loaded with all the best flavors: sharp cheddar, zesty Dijon, and the unmistakable punch of Old Bay seasoning.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this crab dip because it’s one of those low-effort, high-reward recipes. You can prep it in 10 minutes, bake it until it’s hot and golden, and serve it straight from the oven. It’s creamy, tangy, and briny in the best way, with crab meat taking center stage. Plus, it’s wildly customizable — serve it with toasted baguette slices, crackers, chips, or even fresh veggie sticks for dipping.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and picked over
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
Swaps & Notes
- Cheese: Try a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty blend.
- Crab: Use lump or claw meat — even imitation crab in a pinch.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Lighter version: Swap sour cream and mayo for Greek yogurt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
2. Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in sour cream, shredded cheddar, crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire, Old Bay, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
4. Assemble and Bake
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden around the edges.
5. Cool, Garnish, and Serve
Let the dip cool slightly before serving. Top with chopped green onions and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve warm with crackers, crostini, tortilla chips, or sliced veggies.
Tips for Success
✔️ Use softened cream cheese for smooth mixing
✔️ Don’t skip the Old Bay — it’s the soul of the dip
✔️ For even more flavor, add a squeeze of lemon before baking
✔️ Use an oven-safe cast iron or mini cocotte for a rustic serving look
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve your crab dip with:
- Crostini or sliced French bread
- Crackers, pita chips, or tortilla chips
- Celery, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks
- Pair with Beer Cheese Dip for a cheesy duo
- Make it part of a game day spread with Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- For a Southern flair, serve with Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven until warm
- Freezer: Not ideal — dairy can separate
More Recipes You’ll Love
If dips and comfort bites are your thing, you’ll love:
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
- These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food for Lazy Sundays
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cheesy Crab Dip is party-perfect, crowd-pleasing, and seriously addictive. With minimal effort, you get big flavor — rich crab, melty cheese, and that signature Old Bay tang. Make it once and you’ll be hooked.
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac and show off your bubbly dip masterpiece! 🦀🧀🔥
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