Hot Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and totally delicious dish that everyone loves. It’s loaded with tender crab meat, melted cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning to make it perfect for sharing. The dip is warm and gooey, making it ideal for dipping crackers, bread, or fresh veggies.
I always enjoy making Hot Crab Dip when friends come over because it’s such a crowd-pleaser. I like to mix in a little bit of garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. One tip I’ve learned is to bake it until it’s bubbly and golden on top—this always gets everyone excited to dig in.
Serving this dip with crunchy pita chips or toasted baguette slices is my favorite way to enjoy it. It works great as an appetizer for parties or just a cozy snack for movie night. Whenever I make this, it disappears fast, and people always ask me to save some for later!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy base and smooth texture. You can use low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking to lighten it up, but full-fat gives the best richness.
Lump Crab Meat: Fresh or canned lump crab meat works well. If you can’t find lump, claw meat is a budget-friendly swap but has a stronger flavor.
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds gooey meltiness, while cheddar gives a bit of sharpness. You could try Monterey Jack or even a mild gouda if you want a twist.
Old Bay Seasoning: It brings a classic seafood spice punch. If unavailable, a mix of paprika, celery salt, and a pinch of cayenne can work well.
Worcestershire Sauce & Lemon Juice: These brighten and deepen the flavors. For Worcestershire, soy sauce is an okay substitute, but the tang of lemon juice is best kept.
How Can I Get a Golden, Bubbly Top on My Hot Crab Dip?
The golden bubbly topping is a sign of a perfectly baked dip. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Preheat your oven fully to 375°F (190°C) before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a shallow dish or cast iron skillet so the surface browns nicely.
- Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until you see the edges bubbling and the top turns golden.
- If the top isn’t browned enough, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
Using a cast iron dish helps because it holds heat well and promotes even browning. Letting the dip rest for a few minutes after baking helps it firm up slightly for easier dipping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – to blend all the creamy ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Spatula – perfect for folding in the crab gently so it stays in chunks.
- Small cast-iron skillet or baking dish – holds the dip well and helps get a nice golden top.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot skillet or dish when taking it out of the oven.
- Spoon or small serving utensil – for scooping up the dip easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped cooked bacon for a smoky crunch that pairs great with the creamy dip.
- Mix in diced jalapeños if you like a spicy kick to balance the richness.
- Use shrimp instead of crab for a different seafood flavor but same creamy texture.
- Stir in fresh chopped dill or chives for a fresh herb note that brightens the dip.
How to Make Hot Crab Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crostini or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake. So, within 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, creamy crab dip ready to enjoy with your favorite dippers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until you get a smooth mixture. This creamy base makes the dip rich and delicious.
2. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese, followed by the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined and flavorful.
3. Fold in Crab and Green Onions:
Gently fold in the lump crab meat and chopped green onions. Be careful not to break the crab too much—those chunks give the dip wonderful texture.
4. Bake the Dip:
Transfer your mixture to a small cast-iron skillet or baking dish. Smooth the top so it bakes evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle with extra chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with crostini, toasted baguette slices, or your favorite crackers for dipping and enjoying!
Can I Use Frozen Crab Meat for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and drain any excess liquid before using. This helps keep the dip from becoming watery.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed until hot and bubbly.
What Are the Best Dippers for Hot Crab Dip?
Crostini, toasted baguette slices, and crackers work wonderfully. Fresh veggies like celery or bell pepper strips are great for a lighter, crunchy option.
