This hot crab dip is creamy, cheesy, and full of bold, zesty flavor—just like the popular appetizer at Joe’s Crab Shack. It’s loaded with lump crab meat and melted cheese, seasoned with Old Bay and tangy lemon for a crave-worthy dip that’s perfect for parties, game day, or any seafood lover’s snack spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Restaurant-Quality at Home: A copycat dip with bold flavor and melty texture.
Loaded with Real Crab: No imitation here—use lump crab meat for authentic taste.
Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Serve with chips, toasted baguette, or veggies.
Creamy, Cheesy, and Savory: A rich, indulgent dip with a kick of spice.

Ingredients Breakdown

Creamy Base:

8 oz cream cheese, softened – The rich foundation of the dip.
1 cup sour cream – Adds tang and smoothness.
½ cup mayonnaise – Contributes to the creamy texture and flavor.

Flavor Boosters:

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds savory umami depth.
1 tsp Dijon mustard – Brings a sharp, tangy kick.
1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens and balances the richness.
1 tsp Old Bay (or Cajun seasoning) – The signature seafood spice blend.
½ tsp garlic powder + ½ tsp onion powder – Classic flavor duo.

Cheeses:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into a gooey layer.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness and sharpness.

Seafood Star:

1 cup lump crab meat – Delicate, sweet, and tender.

Optional Add-Ins:

¼ cup chopped green onions – Fresh bite and garnish.
¼ tsp cayenne pepper – Adds a little heat (optional).
Salt and black pepper – To taste.

Tips and Tricks:

Use Real Crab Meat: Lump or jumbo lump for best texture and flavor.
No Lump Crab? Canned crab works in a pinch—just drain and pat dry.
Make Ahead: Assemble dip up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Reheat Like a Pro: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 300°F until warm or microwave in 30-second bursts.

Variations and Customizations:

Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Add Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with celery sticks, cucumber slices, or pork rinds.

Pairing Suggestions:

Dippers:
- Tortilla chips
- Toasted baguette slices
- Crackers
- Pita chips
- Veggie sticks
Drinks:
- Cold beer or cider
- Lemon-lime sparkling water or iced tea

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended—cream cheese can separate when thawed.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with lump crab, Old Bay, and zesty lemon—bubbly, indulgent, and perfect for dipping

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Fold in Crab and Cheese

Gently fold in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and lump crab meat.
Mix in green onions if desired. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color.

Notes

For a golden crust, broil the dip for the final 2–3 minutes after baking.
Want extra richness? Add ¼ cup cream cheese chunks just before baking for pockets of creamy goodness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American