Crab Dip Recipe

I remember a rainy Saturday when I pulled a jar of lump crab meat from the fridge and mixed it with softened cream cheese while the house smelled like warm vanilla and wet leaves, that slow, comforting kitchen rhythm led to this Crab Dip Recipe which became the thing friends asked for whenever they dropped by.

Why You’ll Love It

This crab dip is the kind of recipe that feels effortless but special, perfect for a low-key gathering, a family game night, or when you want to turn an ordinary afternoon into something worth lingering over, it comes together quickly, bakes into a bubbling, golden-topped comfort dish, and wins over picky and adventurous eaters alike.

Serves 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes |
Cook Time: 20 minutes |
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 8 ounces lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives plus extra for garnish
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 small baguette, sliced and toasted, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F 190°C and position a rack in the middle, grease a shallow 1 quart oval or similar baking dish.
2. In a large bowl beat the softened cream cheese with the sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy using a spoon or hand mixer at low speed.
3. Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar, the lemon juice, Old Bay, garlic powder, chopped chives, salt and pepper until evenly combined.
4. Gently fold the lump crab meat into the mixture, trying not to break up the lumps too much so you keep nice texture.
5. Spoon the mixture into the prepared ramekin or oval dish, smooth the top, sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and the grated Parmesan.
6. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the center is hot and the top is golden and bubbling, broil for 1 to 2 minutes if you want a deeper brown crust but watch closely.
7. Let the dip rest for 3 to 5 minutes, garnish with extra chives and serve warm with toasted baguette slices and lemon wedges.

Tips & Tricks

• Pat the crab meat dry gently with paper towels to avoid a watery dip and preserve bright crab flavor.
• Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes so it blends smoothly without lumps.
• Taste the mixture before baking and adjust lemon, seasoning, or salt as dairy can mute flavors when heated.
• If using imitation crab, shred it finely and reduce baking time slightly since it is already cooked through.
• Use a shallow baking dish to increase the surface area so the top browns nicely.
• Keep an eye on the broiler if you use it, it can brown the cheese in seconds.

Serving Ideas

• Serve warm at holiday gatherings with toasted baguette slices and crisp celery sticks for contrast.
• Bring it to potlucks in a small slow cooker set to low to keep it melty throughout the party.
• Pack it for a picnic with a small insulated container and a pile of crackers or crostini.
• Make it part of a cozy movie night spread with soft pretzels and roasted vegetables for dipping.
• Plate it as an elegant appetizer for a dinner party with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

This crab dip is a small, comforting celebration you can make on a quiet evening or bring to a lively gathering, it balances creamy richness with bright citrus and delicate crab meat so it feels both indulgent and homey, trust the simple steps, play with small variations, and know that even a modest dish like this can make people linger at the table and share a few extra stories.