Creamy Cheesy Baked Crab Dip

This Creamy Cheesy Baked Crab Dip is everything you want in a warm, comforting appetizer. Loaded with tender crab meat, rich cream cheese, melty mozzarella, and a hint of spice, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that brings coastal vibes straight to your table. Perfect for holidays, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s fast, fuss-free, and full of flavor. This dip is perfect for hosting or potlucks—just mix, bake, and serve. The creamy, cheesy blend highlights the delicate sweetness of crab, making it irresistible. Bonus: It’s just as good reheated!

Pure Comfort

There’s nothing quite like scooping a warm, gooey crab dip onto a toasted baguette or crisp cracker. It’s the kind of dish that makes people linger by the appetizer table. Whether it’s cold outside or you just need something indulgent, this dip delivers comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Dairy & Base

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seafood

• 1/2 pound lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained and checked for shells)

Flavor Boosters

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Garnish (optional)

• Chopped chives or parsley
• Extra shredded cheese for topping

What You Need

• Medium mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or spoon
• Baking dish (8×8 or small cast iron skillet)
• Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)
• Spatula
• Serving spoon

Time to Cook

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Steps to Make It

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish or skillet.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat with a hand mixer or stir vigorously until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Flavors

Mix in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Fold in Crab and Cheese

Gently fold in crab meat, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Be careful not to break up the crab too much—you want those chunks!

Step 5: Assemble and Top

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle with a bit more mozzarella or Parmesan if desired.

Step 6: Bake It

Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve hot with crostini, crackers, or sliced veggies.

Make It Perfect

• Don’t skip the lemon juice—it brightens the richness of the dip.
• Fresh lump crab meat adds a luxurious texture, but high-quality canned works well too.
• Let the cream cheese come to room temp before mixing to ensure a smooth blend.

Mix It Up

• Add chopped artichoke hearts or spinach for a heartier version.
• Substitute sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a different cheese profile.
• Stir in a bit of Dijon mustard for tang.

Perfect Partners

• Crostini
• Pita chips
• Sliced bell peppers or cucumbers
• Ritz or club crackers

Busy Day Hero

You can mix everything the night before and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven before serving. No extra prep required!

Work Ahead

Prepare the dip up to 2 days ahead and store tightly covered in the fridge. Bake when ready—just add 5 extra minutes to cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Save Some For Later

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Everyone’s Happy

This dip checks all the boxes: creamy, savory, slightly tangy, and just the right amount of spice. Even folks who “don’t love seafood” come back for seconds.

Good For You Too

Crab is a lean protein rich in vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. When paired with dairy, it provides a balanced bite of protein and fat—just enjoy in moderation.

Easy Clean Up

One bowl, one baking dish. That’s it. Line your baking dish with parchment for even easier cleanup.

Switch It Up

• Make it spicy with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter version.
• Try it in phyllo cups or stuffed in mushrooms for bite-sized apps.

Simply Perfect

From game nights to elegant parties, this Creamy Cheesy Baked Crab Dip fits the bill. It’s indulgent yet approachable, flavorful without being fussy, and always a hit.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat?
Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Use high-quality imitation crab and chop it well.

What can I use instead of Old Bay?
A mix of paprika, celery salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg can mimic Old Bay.

Can this be made dairy-free?
You can try dairy-free cream cheese and mayo alternatives, but texture and flavor may vary.

Can I freeze this dip?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it unbaked. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Mix everything and cook on low for 2–3 hours until bubbly.

Is this gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies.

What wine pairs well with this dip?
A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cheesy Baked Crab Dip is a go-to recipe for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to treat yourself and your guests. With its luscious texture, bold flavors, and minimal prep, it’s a standout star on any snack table. Keep this recipe in your back pocket—you’ll be asked for it again and again.

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