Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip

This creamy, cheesy, seafood-packed Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip is the ultimate appetizer for game days, holidays, or casual get-togethers. It’s rich, savory, and ready in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-style at home: Tastes just like the iconic dip from Joe’s Crab Shack.
• Super creamy and cheesy: Packed with cream cheese, sour cream, and gooey melted cheese.
• Loaded with crab: Uses lump crab meat for a luxurious seafood flavor.
• Quick & easy: Mix, bake, and serve—done in 25 minutes.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family nights.
• Customizable: Add a spicy kick or change up the cheese.
• Prep-ahead friendly: Can be assembled in advance and baked when ready.
• Low-carb & gluten-free friendly: Naturally low-carb when served with veggies.

Ingredients

For the Crab Dip

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 oz lump crab meat (drained and picked over for shells)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Optional Toppings & Dippers

• Extra shredded cheese for topping
• Sliced green onions
• Chopped parsley
• Tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices
• Celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips

Directions

1. Preheat and prep
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish (8×8 inch or similar).
2. Make the creamy base
   In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add seasonings and cheeses
   Stir in cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Fold in the crab
   Gently fold in the crab meat and green onions, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
5. Transfer to baking dish
   Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Add topping
   Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and any extra shredded cheese over the top.
7. Bake
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
8. Garnish and serve
   Let cool slightly, then sprinkle with more green onions or parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dippers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8 as an appetizer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories per serving: 290 (estimated)

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
• Smoky twist: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder for depth.
• Vegan alternative: Use vegan cream cheese and hearts of palm or jackfruit instead of crab.
• Lighter option: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and light mayo.
• Extra cheesy: Stir in some mozzarella or Gruyère for extra meltiness.
• Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free—just choose gluten-free dippers.
• Herb boost: Add fresh dill or chives to enhance the seafood flavor.
• Cold version: Skip baking and chill for a creamy cold dip.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat?

Yes, imitation crab works if you’re on a budget, but real lump crab meat delivers the best flavor.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Mix the dip, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Bake just before serving.

What can I serve this with?

Tortilla chips, pita chips, baguette slices, or fresh veggie sticks all work great.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just be sure your dippers are, too.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes! Mix the ingredients and heat on low for 1–2 hours until hot and bubbly.

How do I know when it’s done?

It’s ready when it’s heated through and bubbling on the edges. The cheese on top should be lightly golden.

Can I double the recipe?

Easily! Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.

How long will leftovers last?

Up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes, if you prefer, skip baking and chill for a creamy cold crab dip.

Conclusion

Whether you’re channeling coastal vibes or throwing the ultimate appetizer spread, this Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Dip brings creamy, cheesy, crab-filled goodness to the table every time. It’s comforting, quick to prep, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Perfect for seafood lovers and party hosts alike—don’t be surprised if it becomes your most requested recipe!

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