Name: Creamy Hot Crab Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; ½ cup mayonnaise (adds creaminess); ¼ cup sour cream (for tangy richness); 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (enhances seafood flavor); 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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A rich and indulgent appetizer featuring succulent lump crab meat blended with cream cheese, cheddar, and a hint of lemon, baked until hot and bubbly—perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just craving a decadent dip, this hot crab dip is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy – A luscious blend of cream cheese, mayo, and sour cream makes this dip ultra-smooth.
Packed with Crab – Loaded with tender lump crab meat for a delicious seafood flavor.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a stress-free appetizer.
Perfect for Parties – Great for gatherings, game nights, or holiday celebrations.
Customizable – Adjust the seasonings, cheese, or mix-ins to your taste.

Ingredients

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

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix the Base

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice.
Mix until smooth and well combined.

3. Add the Crab and Seasonings

Gently fold in the lump crab meat, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.

4. Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Different Cheese: Try Parmesan, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
Extra Flavor: Mix in Old Bay seasoning or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayo.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy-based dips can separate when thawed.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

2. What’s the best type of crab meat to use?

Lump crab meat is best for its sweet, tender texture, but claw meat works too for a stronger crab flavor.

3. Can I make this dip without cheese?

Yes! You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

4. What’s the best way to serve this dip?

Serve it with crackers, crostini, tortilla chips, or fresh veggie sticks like celery and bell peppers.

5. Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, but fresh or refrigerated lump crab meat has a much better flavor and texture.

6. How do I prevent the dip from being too greasy?

Use full-fat cream cheese and drain any excess liquid from the crab meat before mixing.

7. Can I cook this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until hot and bubbly.

8. How do I make this dip more tangy?

Increase the lemon juice or add a splash of white wine vinegar.

9. Can I add seafood to this dip?

Absolutely! Try mixing in shrimp, lobster, or even canned tuna for variety.

10. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

You can garnish with chives, green onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika instead.

Conclusion

Creamy Hot Crab Dip is the ultimate party appetizer—rich, indulgent, and packed with delicious seafood flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this easy-to-make dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite dippers and enjoy every warm, cheesy bite!