Description
- This Creamy Hot Crab Dip is a rich, cheesy, and indulgent appetizer, loaded with lump crab meat, cream cheese, and cheddar, baked until golden and bubbly. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings, served with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
For the Crab Dip:
- 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)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Make the Base:
- In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
3️⃣ Add the Crab & Cheese:
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much—you want those delicious chunks!
4️⃣ Assemble & Bake:
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Notes
✅ Best served warm, straight from the oven.
✅ Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✅ Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
✅ Make Ahead: Assemble the dip a day in advance and bake just before serving!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Seafood, Dip
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
