Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hot Crab Dip is loaded with flavor, thanks to the combination of sweet crab meat, rich cream cheese, and savory seasonings like garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of lemon. The dip is creamy and smooth with just the right amount of tanginess, and it’s baked to perfection so that the top forms a golden, bubbly crust. It’s easy to make, and you can prep it ahead of time, which makes it perfect for entertaining. Plus, it’s versatile—you can use a variety of dipping options, from crispy crackers to fresh vegetables or even toasted baguette slices.

Ingredients

1 lb crab meat (preferably lump or claw meat, drained if canned)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish (around 8×8 inches) or a shallow casserole dish with a little butter or non-stick spray.
Prepare the dip mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning (if using), and lemon juice. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Fold in the crab meat: Gently fold the crab meat into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to break up the crab too much. You want to keep some nice chunks of crab for texture.
Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the crab mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, golden finish.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown. For a crispier top, you can broil the dip for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
Garnish and serve: Once the dip is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the hot crab dip with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Crab Dip: Add a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dip for some extra heat. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Creamy Crab and Spinach Dip: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the crab mixture for added flavor and color. Be sure to cook and chop the spinach first to remove any excess moisture.
Cheesy Crab Dip: Add more shredded cheese, such as cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses, to the dip for a richer, cheesier flavor.
Lemon Herb Crab Dip: Enhance the fresh flavors of the crab by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a few tablespoons of fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, to the mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover hot crab dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While this dip is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it before baking. To freeze, assemble the dip in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Reheating: To reheat leftovers, warm the dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?

Yes, you can use imitation crab if you prefer, but real crab meat will give the dip a richer, more authentic flavor. If using imitation crab, be sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just cover the dish and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. If baking from cold, you may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or even smoked Gouda to give the dip a unique twist.

4. Can I make this dip without mayonnaise?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute the mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. You can also use a combination of both for a creamier dip.

5. Can I add more vegetables to this dip?

Yes! You can add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor. Be sure to cook and drain any vegetables to avoid excess moisture in the dip.

6. How do I make this dip less rich?

To lighten the dip, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise, or substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe.

7. Can I serve this dip cold?

While this recipe is specifically for a hot dip, you can serve the crab mixture cold as a crab spread or dip if you prefer. Just mix the ingredients and chill until ready to serve.

8. How can I make this dip more flavorful?

For extra depth of flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also enhance the flavor by using fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, or adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

9. Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dip in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until hot and bubbly. Stir occasionally to prevent the dip from burning on the edges.

10. Can I use fresh crab meat?

Yes, you can use fresh crab meat for a more luxurious flavor. Be sure to cook and flake the crab meat before adding it to the dip.

Conclusion

Hot Crab Dip is a deliciously creamy, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With the rich combination of crab, cream cheese, Parmesan, and a touch of garlic and mustard, this dip is both savory and satisfying. Whether served for a special event or a casual get-together, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Serve it with your favorite dipping options, and watch it disappear in no time!