Creamy, cheesy crab dip baked to golden perfection—this Joe’s Crab Shack-inspired appetizer is a warm, savory crowd favorite made for dipping and sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This warm and indulgent baked crab dip is comfort food at its finest. Here’s why it deserves a spot at your next event:
- Creamy, melty, and rich with flavor
- Loaded with real crab meat for a satisfying seafood bite
- Super easy to prepare and bake in just over 30 minutes
- Crowd-friendly for parties, holidays, or casual snacking
- Customizable with spice or cheese variations
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (or imitation crab, finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
- Add cheddar cheese, mozzarella (if using), green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, trying not to break up the lumps.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly. Garnish with green onions and serve warm with crackers, chips, or baguette slices.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 245 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add Some Heat: Stir in hot sauce, jalapeños, or extra cayenne.
- Swap Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Seafood Medley: Add chopped shrimp or scallops alongside crab.
- Broiled Top: For extra browning, broil the dip for the last 1–2 minutes.
- Smoky Finish: A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a savory depth.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warm and bubbly, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, just be sure to drain it well and check for shell pieces.
Is imitation crab meat okay for this recipe?
Yes, it’s a budget-friendly alternative that still delivers good flavor.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
What should I serve with crab dip?
Crackers, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or even raw vegetables work well.
Can I freeze crab dip?
It’s not recommended, as dairy-based dips can separate and become grainy after freezing.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you verify all ingredients (especially Worcestershire sauce) are gluten-free.
Can I cook it in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 2–3 hours until heated through and bubbly.
How can I make this lighter?
Use light sour cream and mayo, and reduce the amount of cheese.
What makes this dip “Joe’s Crab Shack”-style?
The creamy, rich base combined with bold spices and real crab mimics the classic restaurant favorite.
How do I keep it warm during a party?
Transfer to a small slow cooker on warm or keep in a warming tray.
Conclusion
Creamy Cheesy Baked Crab Dip is a warm, crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dip is a guaranteed hit. Packed with creamy cheese, tender crab, and just the right touch of spice, it’s a true comfort classic worth savoring.
Print
Creamy Cheesy Baked Crab Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, cheesy crab dip baked golden—this Joe’s Crab Shack-inspired favorite is perfect for dipping, sharing, and satisfying every crowd!
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
1/2 lb lump crab meat (or imitation crab, finely chopped)
1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo until smooth.
Add cheddar, mozzarella, green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Fold in crab meat gently, keeping the lumps intact.
Transfer to the baking dish, spread evenly.
Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Cool slightly, garnish with green onions, and serve with crackers, chips, or baguette slices.
Notes
- Best served warm right out of the oven.
- Can prep ahead and bake just before serving.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Imitation crab is a budget-friendly alternative, but lump crab gives the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American