Whenever I’m hosting a party or planning a cozy night in, I always look for a dish that feels indulgent but still easy to make. This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is one of those go-to recipes that checks every box. It’s creamy, cheesy, loaded with lump crab meat, and has just the right amount of seasoning and tang to keep everyone coming back for another scoop.
What I love most is how effortless it is to put together. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick bake in the oven, you end up with a hot, bubbly, golden dip that tastes like it came straight from a seafood restaurant. Whether served with crackers, tortilla chips, or even sliced veggies, this dip is always the first thing to disappear at any gathering.
Let me show you how I make this decadent appetizer that’s perfect for sharing (or honestly, just for indulging on your own).
Why You’ll Love This Crab Dip
Here’s why I keep this recipe in my rotation:
- Creamy and cheesy with the perfect seafood flavor
- Quick to prep and bake — just 35 minutes from start to finish
- Perfect for parties, holidays, or game day spreads
- Restaurant-level flavor without the fuss
- Versatile for serving with all kinds of dippers
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 6 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained and picked over
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish so nothing sticks.
2. Beat the Cream Cheese
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This step helps make the dip silky and easy to combine.
3. Add in All the Good Stuff
Mix in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir everything well until combined and evenly mixed.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the crab mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out so it bakes evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
6. Cool, Garnish, and Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes once out of the oven. If you like, sprinkle the top with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor and color. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or sliced veggies.
Pro Tips for the Best Crab Dip
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor, but canned crab works in a pinch.
- Shred your own cheddar cheese for better melting and creaminess.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for a bright, fresh kick.
- For extra spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Keep it warm in a small slow cooker on low if serving at a party.
What to Serve with Crab Dip
This dip is so versatile and pairs well with all kinds of dippers:
- Butter crackers
- Toasted baguette slices
- Pita chips
- Tortilla chips
- Celery sticks and bell pepper strips for a lighter option
Fun Variations to Try
- Add shredded mozzarella on top for a cheesy stretch with every bite.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese for extra heat and flavor.
- Top with crispy bacon bits before serving for a smoky twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just bake as directed.
Q: Can I use imitation crab meat?
A: You can, but the flavor won’t be as rich as using real lump crab meat. Fresh or canned lump crab will give you the best result.
Q: How long does crab dip last in the fridge?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
Q: Can I freeze crab dip?
A: I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, as the texture can change once thawed.
A Party Favorite You’ll Make Again and Again
This Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip has become a staple for any gathering in my home. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of rich flavor that feels indulgent and comforting all at once. Whether you’re hosting a big party or just treating yourself to something special, this dip is guaranteed to impress.
If you give it a try, let me know how it turned out! Add your own twist or favorite garnishes and share your version — I’d love to hear how you make this classic dish your own. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy, seafood-filled bite!
Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip – Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lump crab meat, drained
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, lump crab meat, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with chopped green onions.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.
Nutrition Information
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