This Maryland Crab Dip is a rich, creamy, and cheesy appetizer that highlights the sweet, delicate flavor of lump crab meat combined with Old Bay seasoning and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite, perfect for parties, holidays, and game day snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Maryland Flavor – Classic Old Bay seasoning and fresh lump crab meat create a true taste of the Chesapeake Bay.
- Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – A blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and sharp cheddar makes this dip irresistibly smooth and rich.
- Baked to Perfection – A golden, bubbly top with a warm, cheesy interior.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve as an appetizer, party dip, or seafood lover’s delight.
- Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated white onion
- 12 oz lump crab meat
- 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning salt (e.g., Lawry’s Seasoned Salt)
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped Italian parsley
- Tabasco sauce, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crackers, baguette slices, or tortilla chips for serving
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the Creamy Base
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Seasonings & Flavor Enhancers
- Add the grated white onion, seasoning salt, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, chopped parsley, Tabasco sauce, and black pepper. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
4. Fold in the Crab Meat
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
5. Assemble & Bake
- Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and slightly golden.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, or tortilla chips.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 245 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add extra Tabasco, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Creamier Version – Mix in ½ cup shredded mozzarella or creamier cheese like Gruyère.
- Garlic Lovers – Stir in 1 teaspoon minced garlic for extra flavor.
- Old Bay Twist – Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning on top before baking for an authentic Maryland touch.
- Cold Crab Dip – Skip the baking step and serve chilled for a refreshing alternative.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab meat instead of lump crab meat?
Yes, but lump crab meat provides better texture and flavor. Drain and flake canned crab if using.
What can I serve with Maryland Crab Dip?
Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, celery sticks, or pretzels.
Can I make this dip gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your crackers or dippers are gluten-free.
How do I make the dip extra cheesy?
Add ½ cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a gooier texture.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt adds extra protein and a slight tang.
How can I prevent my crab dip from becoming too runny?
Make sure your crab meat is well-drained, and avoid overmixing to keep the texture thick and creamy.
What’s the best way to reheat crab dip?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes for the best texture.
Can I freeze Maryland Crab Dip?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become grainy when thawed.
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
Try using dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and vegan cheese substitutes.
Conclusion
This Maryland Crab Dip is an irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and seafood-packed appetizer that’s sure to steal the show at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday party, game day, or a seafood feast, this warm, comforting dip is a must-try. Give it a try today and enjoy a true taste of Maryland’s coastal flavors!
Print
Maryland Crab Dip
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Maryland Crab Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent appetizer packed with lump crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, this warm seafood dip is a must-have for parties, game days, and holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon grated white onion
- 12 oz lump crab meat
- 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning salt (e.g., Lawry’s Seasoned Salt)
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped Italian parsley
- Tabasco sauce, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crackers, baguette slices, or tortilla chips (for serving)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the Base:
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir until smooth.
3. Add Seasonings:
- Stir in grated onion, seasoning salt, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, parsley, Tabasco, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Fold in Crab Meat & Cheese:
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
5. Assemble & Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, or tortilla chips.
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add extra Tabasco or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add a Topping: Sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning or extra parsley before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Maryland-Inspired
