Hot Crab Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, combining sweet lump crab meat with a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful base. Served warm and bubbly, this dip is perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or game-day snacks. The rich flavors of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and melted cheese blend beautifully with the delicate seafood taste of crab, making it irresistible when paired with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable sticks.
This recipe is simple to make, requires minimal prep time, and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a savory indulgence, this Hot Crab Dip will be the star of the table. Using quality crab meat ensures the best taste and texture, while a perfect balance of seasoning enhances the flavor without overpowering the crab. It’s an elegant yet comforting dish that can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it a go-to appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning or seafood seasoning
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once the dip is prepared. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise, then beat until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it blends evenly into the mixture. Add the lump crab meat gently, being careful not to break it up too much so you retain its meaty texture.
- Mix in the chopped green onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the crab is evenly distributed.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if desired. Transfer the prepared dip mixture into a lightly greased oven-safe baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with paprika for a subtle color and flavor boost if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges and slightly golden on top. Remove from the oven carefully and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the hot crab dip with an assortment of dippers such as buttery crackers, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or crisp vegetables like celery and bell pepper strips.
- For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
- This Hot Crab Dip can be prepared a few hours ahead, refrigerated, and then baked just before serving. Enjoy it fresh from the oven while it’s warm, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy.